In the words of the infamous Porky Pig, "That's all, folks!" 48 classes later (plus 4 production credits) and I am D.O.N.E with my undergraduate degree. Since today is also the day high school seniors are declaring their college, I thought it's appropriate (and about time) that I write about the college experience--in a way that's actually helpful for incoming freshman. So, without further ado, here is my advice from an (almost) college graduate! (In no particular order of importance)
1) Major in something that's interesting to you As your resident theatre major, I can tell you that I'm not going to make much money immediately after graduation. However, I can also tell you that I actually went to my classes (willingly), and had a lot of fun. If you choose something that seems practical but you're not actually interested in, you're not going to show up or put in the work. So, why not have some fun? I can assure you that you're going to learn important skills that employers are going to look for anyway, whether you're majoring in business, environmental science, or studio art. 2) A few solid friends is more important than having a million Your first few months of college are going to be chock full of potential friends, and many of them may not stick. In fact, it'll be like this for most of college. You'll meet a lot of people, most of whom are going to become acquaintances, no matter how amazing they may be. However, the most important people will stick around--even if it's just a few in comparison to the insane number of people you've met. 3) You're paying for your classes (so try not to skip them) I was terrible at attending some of my classes, especially Freshman year during my gen eds. However, if you break down your tuition, the amount you're paying for your classes alone means that it's an absolute waste of your money if you decide to sleep through it instead of going. I know, sometimes they're not the best, but college students are honestly the only people that don't use what they pay for. (Also, I can promise you your grade is going to be better if you attend.) 4) It's not going to be perfect There are so many changes that are going to happen, people you're going to meet, and events that take place that are going to ruin the "perfect" image of college you've created for yourself. Plans change on a daily basis, and sometimes you're left in the dust. This happens to everyone in some capacity. Just make sure that you get back up and look for alternatives rather than wallowing for too long. (Shoutout to those W's on my transcript from when I thought I was going into business.) 5) Take advantage of what's offered If your RA has an event, go to it. If there's something fun happening for finals week, get your butt over there. Participate in as much as you can because there are people who worked hard on it. Even if you're "not into sports" or "don't have time," there's always something to gain from an event or a person. Also, the professional employees on campus are there for a reason, so why not pay someone a visit if you need help on a resume, assistance with some mental goings-on, or need a little extra support? 6) Go see your professors Your professors are the most important people you will meet. Sure, they vary and some are horrible, but there are others who are genuinely amazing and caring individuals who are passionate about what they teach and are interested in their students' success. Get to know them, learn from them, and go into office hours if you need help or just want to chat. 7) Take lots of pictures Photographic evidence of how much you've changed or everything you gone to is honestly so much fun to go through at the end of your college career. Be that person that takes pictures of everything, you and your friends will be grateful for it when you're done. 8) Challenge yourself There's a difference between being reckless and being challenge. So basically, what I'm saying is challenge yourself to go to a club that you're interested in but don't know anyone in (not see how much of a tequila bottle you can drink). Step outside of your comfort zone in a way that makes you a little nervous but excites you. College is about learning, and you can't learn without moving outside of your bubble. But let me say it one more time for the people in the back: TAKING ON A CHALLENGE AND BEING RECKLESS ISN'T THE SAME THING 9) Everything is temporary (the good and the bad) The good, the bad, the in-between, all of it is 100% temporary. Four years goes by really fast, even if that one incredibly stressful day doesn't. Enjoy every minute and soak in the awesome, and remember that the bad really does pass eventually. 10) Go on adventures Whether it's in city limits or on a study abroad trip, get to know the town and the world you're living in. Even if you don't think it's possible to get somewhere, there are always options and people to help. College provides so many opportunities beyond the classroom, so this definitely goes hand-in-hand with challenging yourself and taking advantage of what's offered. 11) It's ok to not know what you're doing It doesn't matter if you're 21-22 and graduating or you're 17-19 and just starting. Nobody knows what they're doing and that's totally ok. You can say, "I feel so sure in *fill in the blank*" and that's totally great! But like #9 says, everything is temporary, even interests and goals (these definitely change). Go with the flow, work hard, ask questions, and reach out to people you trust for help when needed. There are no stupid questions because if we haven't gone through it yet, someone else has. BONUS: 12) Eat well and keep track of your finances (I know it sounds "adultey" but it'll save you). So there you go, 11 (12) pieces of advice from a graduating senior to you. I honestly can't believe that I'm the one taking grad pics and going to places for "one last time" but here we are! Bear Down and Go Cats Have any additional questions or comments? Feel free to leave one below!
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AuthorElena B. Archives
June 2020
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