If college is unlike any other time in our lives, Freshman year is by far the most significant year of that college experience. It’s when we leave home, first share space with a stranger, and live completely independently (except from a financial standpoint of course). It also is the semester that for better or worse sets a tone for the next few years. Get it wrong and college can really suck. But if you take my suggestions, your freshman year can be amazing and transform your life. Here’s how you can make the most out of it:
1. Jump In and Get Involved
Join Clubs and Organizations even if you aren’t 100% committed. This is a great way to explore interests. Find activities that align with your passions or to discover new ones. Join clubs, student organizations, or sports teams to meet people and build a sense of community. Take on leadership roles in these organizations. It’s a great way to develop your skills, gain experience, and make a positive impact on campus.
Attend campus events even if they seem a little lame. Attend welcome week events, campus fairs, and other social gatherings. These are great opportunities to meet other students and familiarize yourself with the different vibes on campus. I’d also check out academic department activities. Attend guest lectures, workshops, and seminars. These events can broaden your knowledge and help you connect with professors and professionals in your field of interest.
2. Prioritize Academics
Get and Stay Organized…IMMEDIATELY. Use a Planner. Keep track of your assignments, exams, and other responsibilities using a planner and get everything from your syllabi onto your Google Calendar or iCal. This will help you manage your time effectively and avoid last-minute stress. I’d also set some academic goals for yourself. Whether it’s aiming for a certain GPA, mastering a subject, or improving study habits, having goals can keep you motivated (or at least focused).
Use academic resources and seek help before you need it. Don’t wait until you’re struggling to seek help. Use campus resources like disability services (if you’ve got ADHD, anxiety, or other mental health or medical challenges), tutoring centers, writing labs, and office hours with professors to stay on top of your studies. Forming study groups is a nice way of also meeting other students and makes the class content less intimidating.
3. Build Strong Relationships
Connect with professors by going to office hours even if you aren’t having problems. Take advantage of professors’ office hours to ask questions, discuss course material, or seek advice on your academic path. Building relationships with professors can lead to mentorship and valuable recommendations. It’s also important to participate in class. It’s not high school any more, many professors give participation grades. Engage actively in class by asking questions and contributing to discussions. This not only helps you learn but also helps you stand out to your professors.
Make Friends and Build a Network by spreading out rather than being too selective. Make an effort to meet new people, whether it’s through your dorm, classes, or extracurricular activities. Assume you won’t like everyone and that everyone won’t like you but that’s the cost of admission.
Lastly, and this is not about being cool, – connect with Seniors. Upperclassmen can offer valuable advice about apartments, classes, professors, internships, and study abroad. Don’t hesitate to reach out and learn from their experiences.
4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Don’t get fat. Take care of your health. Do this by establishing a routine your first week. Make sure to include regular exercise (5x/week for 30 minutes), a healthy diet (eg. Mediterranean Diet is the best to aim for), and adequate sleep (Consistency, Quality, and Duration) is crucial for your overall well-being. Use all those campus resources you pay for. Take advantage of the gym, health center, and wellness programs to stay healthy.
The other big part of health is mental health. Practice self-care, not selfishness and hedonism, but actual care. College can be overwhelming, so take time for yourself and make space for quiet time and recharging your battery. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or any activity that helps you relax and recharge. I’ve been recommending Non-Sleep Deep Relaxation (NSDR) for a long time because it works so well at helping reset our neurological state in a very short period of time. Here’s the link for the free YouTube video I use.
You are not an island. Get help. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, don’t wait. Check out campus counseling services (also referred to as Counseling and Psychological Services or CAPS) or talk to someone you trust. Don’t wait till the end of the semester or until you’re feeling suicidal.
5. Explore and Take Big Swings
This is the absolute best time to try new things. College is the time to try new experiences. Whether it’s taking a class outside your major, studying abroad, or trying a new hobby, don’t be afraid to explore. When, not if, you screw things up, you’ve got plenty of time to recover. I’d even think of it a bit more extreme – embrace challenges. Invite non-fatal risk into your life. Don’t shy away from difficult tasks or situations. Overcoming challenges is a key part of personal growth and development.
This is also a great time to invest a wee bit-o-time into thinking about your career options. Yeah, maybe that seems scary or just too dang far out but starting now when the stakes are real low makes Junior and Senior year way easier. Visit the career services office, attend job fairs, and start building your resume with internships or volunteer work. I’d also include in this the value in exploring majors. If you’re undecided on your major (which is perfect for Freshman year), explore different subjects, find what truly interests you, and start thinking about what majors lead to careers that hit the sweet spot of your abilities, your interests, and compensation.
That’s it folks.
Your freshman year is the foundation. Spend time being intentional w for the rest of your college experience. By getting involved, staying on top of your academics, building relationships, maintaining balance, and exploring new opportunities, you can make the most of this pivotal year. Embrace the journey, and remember that college is not just about academics—it’s about growing as an individual and setting the stage for your future.