That first day of college mix of excitement and confusion where you are seeing all the new faces and trying to look confident but internally wondering where your next class even is. Soon, when you are figuring out everything, life hits you with assignments, group projects, viva and 9:30 am lectures that feel like 4 a.m.
Looking back, I wish someone had told me what college really feels like, not just the Karan Johar movie version, but exhausting reality of it.
So here’s me, writing to my freshman-year self and to every new student stepping into this journey.
1.Everybody is Clueless.
Trust me when I am saying this, nobody knows what they are doing, they are as confused as you are. So, don’t panic because everybody ‘s just pretending they have got it all figured out.
2.Freindship takes Time.
You would not be able to get your best buddy in few weeks. Some people would feel like home and some might look rude. It’s okay, wait till you find your right ones, even if it takes a whole semester.
3.Don’t try too hard to fit in.
If you get a bunch of people initially and they have different mindset, background, lifestyle that does not align with yours, it’s completely fine, don’t try too hard to fit in and do something that against your principles.
4.Maintain your Sleep Cycle.
Having good conversations with your roommates late at night, midnight snacking is all fun and games until you are in class next morning, questioning reality. It’s basic necessity don’t compromise with it.
5.Roommates are a test of patience.
From switching lights on at 2a.m. to setting high 6 a.m. alarm ringtones. Living with others teaches you to compromise, set boundaries and the art of communicating without loosing your cool.
6.Keep records of your Finances .
One coffee, blinkit, online order and boom you are left with one fourth of monthly budget to survive rest of 15 days. Maintaining your budget accordingly is necessary.
7.Never miss an opportunity.
Opportunities rarely knock twice. So, if there is an internship offers, club activities, competitions, events just go for it. Explore yourself and stop focusing on what if and try to see the bright side.
8.It’s okay to outgrow people.
The ones who fit perfectly in your life today may not be there forever. Growth means change and sometimes that means moving on from friendships that no longer serve you and stay away from such people who never misses any chance in bringing your morale down.
9. Crushes fade, friendships stay longer.
It’s fun to have butterflies ,You are in college but it’s even better to have people who genuinely care. Choose those who bring peace over those who bring drama.
10. Comparison Kills.
Someone else will always be doing “better” – better grades, better looks, better internships. Never ever compare yourself, work on your own individuality, Because you’re not behind; you’re just on your timeline.
11. It’s okay to have a downfall.
That one bad grade, presentation, rejection, teacher scolding doesn’t define you. You’ll stumble, but every time you do, you will bounce back even more stronger. Some downfalls are meant to happen so that you do the greatest comeback.
12.Take pictures, Videos, make memories.
College Life is the last most carefree chapter of your life. So make as much memories you can, say yes to every outings, trips , take pictures and videos so that you could cherish all those moments with your homies and see how happy you used to be.
13. You’ll be okay.
No matter how hard it feels right now you’ll find your people, your rhythm, and your purpose. Freshman year is just the beginning of a version of you that’s stronger, kinder, and more confident than you ever imagined.
Freshman year isn’t about being perfect, it’s about learning who you are when no one’s telling you what to do. You’ll make mistakes, meet amazing people, lose some, and still grow in ways you never imagined.
So don’t rush it. Don’t compare it. Live it every late-night panic, every spontaneous laugh, every awkward moment.
Because one day, you’ll wish you could live it all over again.
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