Starting college comes with a lot of advice — especially the reminder that you don’t have to have everything figured out. It’s something you hear so often that it starts to lose meaning. Then you arrive on campus and realize just how true it is: Classes are harder, other students haven’t yet become friends, and everything feels unfamiliar.
Being a college freshman was one of the scariest experiences I’ve had, but looking back now as a senior at the University of Southern Maine, I can see how much I’ve learned about myself and where I fit into the world.
1.
It’s okay to change your mind in college
You can change your mind about anything at any time. When I first started college, I wasn’t even going to USM. I had a different major, lived in a dorm with a roommate, and was really sad about being away from home. I never felt like I was in a good place at my previous school — I felt so far out of my comfort zone that I wasn’t confident or comfortable anywhere I went.
It’s so important to listen to yourself when things don’t feel right. Eventually, I ended up transferring to USM and changing my major. I live at home now, where I’m more comfortable with myself and my current path. I’m proud of myself for moving away and living on my own for two full years, but even prouder that I listened to myself and made a change. Even if your change is small, it’s important to follow your intuition and make college an enjoyable experience for you.
2.
Take advantage of university counseling services
When I first started college, I realized I needed to talk to someone (who wasn’t my mom) about how scared and sad I felt away from home. I spent one free session with a counselor at my previous school, who talked through a lot of my fears and insecurities. She helped me see my struggles weren’t unique – they’re something many students experience. I suggest taking advantage of USM’s counseling services if you’re struggling, too.
3.
Find time to enjoy yourself
Life can get really busy in college, especially if you’re constantly trying new things and meeting new people. My best advice is to take time for yourself. Do something completely on your own every now and then. Take a walk somewhere calming, watch a new movie, read a book, take a nap. Just do something that is all about you so that you can remember what matters most to you outside of school.
4.
Do your best to stay organized and on top of your work
This is probably one of the hardest things to manage in college. The semester often starts slowly before you suddenly have a million things due in the same week. I use a planner to write down every assignment, and like to stick to a specific schedule for doing homework — I have an expectation to get some work done every day. I always struggle to catch back up once I’ve fallen behind.
If you’re falling behind, I suggest talking to your professors. Most will understand and help when you need it, just don’t be afraid to ask.
5.
You don’t have to have everything figured out
I know it’s been drilled into your head at this point, but you really don’t need to have it all figured out. When I graduated high school, I felt overwhelmed when people my age seemed so certain about their plans. A few years into college, I’ve realized that many of those plans change — and that’s okay.
Now, I have a much better idea of what I want to do, but it didn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, experience, and some trial and error. It’s also important to remember that your career doesn’t have to define your entire life. A job is just one part of who you are, not the whole picture.
You don’t have to figure everything out right now.. It will all come together — everything in due time.
