Although I have no regrets about my college experience at Eastern Michigan University, there are some things I wish I had known sooner.
As an incoming freshman, there was a lot of advice thrown at me and I had mixed feelings about all of it, but what I wish I had realized was how much I would change and that independence comes with responsibility.
Below are some things I think all college freshmen should learn or consider as they enter this next phase of their lives.
All college freshmen should learn to be more flexible and take change as it comes.
The chance of a student changing his or her major during school is very high. Instead of picking a subject solely because it’s sensible or your parents like it, keep your options open and try taking your general education classes first.
Consider taking courses at WCC so your tuition will be cheaper.
As an out-of-state student, I did not realize how many classes could be taken at Washtenaw Community College and transferred to EMU for a fraction of the cost. You will also meet different people and make more friends if you take classes at both campuses.
Make sure to branch out while you are in college and try new things.
This is the last chance you have before you work full time to do things you might not be able to afford later.
Take a new foreign language course, learn how to play an instrument or go sailing. There are so many options in student organizations as well as general physical education courses to try something different.
The fastest way to make friends in college is to become part of a group or team and to talk to classmates outside of class.
Most of my friends were made in class, so remember that other people might also be looking for a buddy.
There are so many people to meet and things to do in college, especially if you’re involved.
Build relationships with favorite professors.
This will help so that you can have recommendations for interviews or grad school applications when it’s time to move on.
Also, consider getting an internship or some hands-on experience.
Either of these will help build your resume and supplement coursework.
Mainly, college freshmen need to get out of their comfort zones by taking classes that challenge academic weaknesses and become involved on campus.
College is a learning experience, so don’t beat yourself up when you make mistakes. Try not to spend too much time drinking and realize early that the embarrassing or weird things that happen often make the best memories.
