Yes, it's finally here. It's your Freshman year of college!
Say goodbye to dingy lockers, homeroom, and everything else that plagued you in high school.
Time for flexible schedules, late nights, new friends, college parties, re-inventing yourself, and more!
As a borderline Senior in college (graduating early is both exciting and scary at the same time), I can definitely share some of what I've learned thus far.
I'd love to share what I think a young and thriving gal should know about this new, life changing, and of course awesome time in your life.
P.S. Obviously feel free to do what you'd like but just remember to always stay classy <3
Make your dorm room as fabulous as you are
Bedazzle, glitter, swarm in photographs, adorn in lights, and DIYs.... Make your room a cozy and cute place. I like to make a theme for each year and try to stick to decor that matches it.
Find ideas on Pinterest; Peep
mine, I have a ton!
This is your new home! My favorite thing to do is decorate my room and create a space that reflects all that I am. Also, you want to make it's none other than fabulous when you have friends over and/or when you are swamped with final papers at 3am that are due the next morning.
Definitely check back to see my room this year will look like <3
Have fun, be smart, but don't break your heart in the process
Yes, it is your time to enjoy being single, wild, and free but that does not mean you can be a loose canon (you know what I mean). I understand college can be a free for all and a time to experiment and such but just remember that you have to live with the decisions you make. I am not as "social" as other girls and that's just who I am. People will judge you if you do or you don't and I know that first hand.
If you find yourself doing the notorious "walk of shame", don't make it a habit. It's not a cute look.
Don't condemn yourself for making mistakes. You are human and it's a part of life.
You are in control and don't let anyone pressure you or let you think otherwise.
If you go to a small school, people will be all up in your business. Keep it to yourself.
An invitation to watch Netflix in a dorm room? Proceed with caution (we know how that could end).
Don't believe silly rumors that you clearly know aren't true, just like your heels, keep your head high.
It is indeed true: Boys like a chase. They want what they can't have. So don't give it all away.
Get involved and make your presence known on campus (in a good way!)
I love going to a small school and have the awesome opportunity to get involved on campus and become acquainted with my professors, advisors, and other leaders.
Join a club, join a team, start a club, start a new hobby, get a job, and/or volunteer.
You have a lot more time to dedicate to your interests so take advantage of that time!
Make sure to use your time wisely. Time flies so fast.
Your resumé and awesome social life will thank you for this.
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| Photo booth fun with Diem Brown and my Committee |
Stay sane.
Being a girl who can't say no and loves to be involved in just about everything, I have had my fair share of crises and scheduling conflicts. Yes, get involved but don't drive yourself to a breakdown. Make sure to make time for yourself. Schedule a mani/pedi night with your friends, or order pizza, put a mask on, and watch a movie. Whatever it is, make it stress-free!
Stay organized
If this isn't your forté, girl, I suggest you make it. You need to manage school, activities, a social life, and/or jobs if you're like me. My planner and calendar on my iPhone and Mac are my lifesavers.
Buy a cute planner and make sure to actually use it. Remember that cute planner you bought and haven't used? Time to use it. Color code or just write out simple to-do's for the day. Doing so, you'll be able to keep up with your life and make time for everything that you want to do.
Study, be a go-getter, and don't be afraid to be a nerd
I am by no means bragging in anyway but I do know what I'm talking about.
I have worked very hard for my grades and I am happy to say that I maintain an above average GPA and have been on the Dean's List every semester.
Because of this, I'll be able to apply to amazing grad schools (as long as the GRE doesn't destroy me first) and stay very competitive in the intern and job market.
You are there to get a degree. Make sure you leave with one.
Find a study buddy, schedule study sessions that involve loud singing and jamming in your PJs like I love to do, go to the tutoring center (my campus job that I absolutely love <3), or even meet with your professor.
Just make it happen!
You are fully capable of doing your best and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Obviously, a high grade point average doesn't make or break you but it does help.
I'm the girl who isn't afraid to ask questions, sit in the front, and participate until my arm falls off and it's paid off thus far.
Always channel your inner Elle Woods!
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| Delta Epsilon Sigma Induction |
Work it out.
Late nights and an active social life can easily make you pack on some new pounds. I absolutely
love working out after a long day of school, work, and a boat load of activities. I joined my school's swim team and was able to get my body into shape my Freshman year (
6AM workouts totally suck). I lost the Freshman 15 instead of gaining it! In the off-season, I had to stay active. Make sure to use your school's gym to your advantage. If you can't work out at the gym, work out in your room.
YOU ALWAYS HAVE TIME. Don't make an excuse. I'm a busy person and I still make time.
You want a fit body? Make time. Find some workout videos on Youtube for free or workouts on Pinterest, put some sneakers on, and work it out in your room. Endorphins make you happy <3
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| Throwback to Freshman Year |
Dress to impress.
The only time you catch me in sweatpants is basically never. I don't believe in wearing sweatpants to class unless it was a rough night. Even then, I somehow manage to make myself look presentable. Being that I want to work in fashion, I love to wear makeup, throw a cute dress and heels on and seize the day. Plus, I feel a lot more put together and productive with a great outfit on. If that's not your thing, I totally get it. Just make sure the sweatpants aren't the same everyday :P
Communicate.
One of the most important things to learn is to communicate. This tip could go along for so many things: professors, friends, jobs etc. Most importantly, communicate with your roommate(s). You are now living with another being and the last thing you would want is conflict. My suggestion? First and foremost, search for your perfect match! I found my adorable and amazing roommate on my class Facebook page and made sure we stayed in contact and got to know each other before our orientation. Because of that, we became best friends and our room was always to both of our standards! If you do have a conflict and don't see your rooming situation the least bit desirable, search for another roomie and take it up with your RA. Don't wallow.
If you don't like it, change it. I think that advice applies to just about everything!
Make new friends, seize every opportunity, and make it memorable.
You will definitely make new friends and who knows who you will meet!
Maid of honor? Husband? Who knows! Trust me, those friendships will change your life!
Take every opportunity you get. Go on fun trips, do the unthinkable, be spontaneous, and have the time of your life!
Feel free to comment or share any first year jitters.
I wish you the most amazing and fabulous Freshman year of college <3
