Ah, freshman year of college. To quote one of my favorite movies, "I JUST HAVE A LOT OF FEELINGS!" I am excited to have a new start, anxious (for too many reasons to list), determined, thrilled, uncertain; just imagine all the juxtaposing feelings in the world, bouncing around my brain like tennis balls with ADHD. As you can imagine, it's a tad overwhelming.
I'm terrible at sorting out my feelings, but for some reason I'm great at giving advice to other people. So maybe if I post advice on here to all of my friends going to college, I'll be able to better digest my thoughts? Does that make me selfish? Gah that is too complicated- my brain is on summer mode, no need to philosophize.
Ok so here we go. It's advice time.
1. PEOPLE SKILLS ARE KINDA REALLY IMPORTANT.
You don't need to be the person who sounds like a 5 year old, begging people to be her friend, but it's good to be open and friendly. One trick is to offer others help with moving stuff or walking somewhere. Or ask for their help- do they know where [insert fancy college building here] is? Because you sure as heck don't. Would they mind helping you carry your [insert thingy here] to your room? Thanks so much, and by the way, I like your [options include but are not limited to: clothing, eyebrows, parents, teeth whiteness, etc.] You get the point. This will allow you to strike up a conversation while not coming off as desperate.
2. DON'T EAT YOUR FEELINGS.
Emotions are friends, not food. This is different than grabbing a cake for dessert, or having a soda when you're thirsty, as that is perfectly fine. I'm a terrible example of a healthy person (what? nutella isn't a vegetable?) but I know if I'm anxious, I tend to eat more junk food than usual. If you recognize this in yourself, don't get your knickers in a twist. It's pretty normal (to an extent) and nothing to beat yourself up over. Ask yourself, "Am I actually hungry?" or drink a large glass of water before dunking doritos and fries in a pint of ice cream. Also find ways to manage your stress, so you won't turn to food for comfort. Freshman 15? It can kiss your...gluteus maximus. Yeah, that was definitely the initial phrase going through my brain.
3. MANAGE YOUR MIND.
This is something I am seriously working on. Know your emotional limits- what makes you upset, if sleep/dehydration play a role in how you're feeling (plot twist- they DO), when you need to take a break and how you need to take it. Know what recharges you; music, writing, physical sportsy things (obviously my forte), nature, or even just taking a nap. It is more than ok to skip hanging out with your newfound friends for a little bit, if it means you'll be recharged and ready to go later. This is especially important going into college because it's likely that your anxiety levels will be higher than usual. You literally have billions of cells and tiny science things in your body, trying to make you healthy and happy. Make their job easier by managing your stress and productively taking time for yourself.
4. BE AT THE HELM OF YOUR OWN SCHEDULE.
Again, this is something I need to be more on top of. I affectionately call wasted hours "netflix hours," because you don't realize they're gone until it's midnight and your essay remains unwritten. (was it worth it to watch all those 80's movies? probably not.) Do not be sucked down by netflix hours!!! Create a checklist for the day, have your phone set reminders, or even ask a friend to text you. Your first few weeks in college will be filled with activity fairs, meeting your professors, making friends, and general chaos. Make sure you prioritize and have a clear idea of where your time is going.
So I was going to have five advice sections, but my stomach is demanding nourishment and if I leave this unfinished there is no telling when it will be posted. My bets are on next year. Anyway, I hope you benefit from this blog post, as that was the main intention. And you don't have to be going into college to profit- I think this list applies to most people, and if you've already mastered it than you deserve a cookie and then a scolding for stretching the truth. If you are going into your first year of college, don't worry. You will do amazingly and expand your noggin and change lives.
XOXO,
Jenn
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