7 Upperclassmen Weigh In on the One Thing They Wish They’d Known as College Freshman

You’ll have a lot of different emotions during your freshman year of college: Excitement, eagerness, enthusiasm, and so much more. One particular feeling that lingers in all of us, however, is anxiety. It’s a whole different world out there, and you don’t know what to expect. But guess what? You’re not the only one! Most people have this exact feeling, and they’re here to share their tips to make your freshman year as amazing as possible.

Below, seven upperclassmen share the one thing they each wish they’d known when starting their college career, so hopefully these can be taken into consideration for you in the future!

1. They Wish They Didn’t Focus on Learning for the Sake of a 4.0 GPA

“My mistake was that I cared too much for that perfect 4.0 GPA that we all know is a myth when it comes to college. Your mission shouldn’t be to get good grades in class and forget everything you’ve learned within a week. Key points about your studies and life skills are revealed in class and all these things should in the back of your mind always because that’s what you’re at school for: to learn!” – Brent, University of Miami ‘17

It obviously doesn’t hurt to receive good grades! At the same time, really learning something can be even more beneficial.

2. They Wish They Took Office Hours Seriously

“Go to office hours; it actually helps! Taking advantage of outside resources like office hours and campus learning assistance services definitely are one of the most underrated resources ever! Your poor professor or TA sometimes has to endure an hour by him or herself, and it would be nice to just go in there, get some help, and connect with him or her. Create a good relationship with your professors and your TA, because when it comes to letters of recommendation and references for research, internships, and jobs, your MVPs will be these very individuals.” – Christine, University of California, Santa Barbara ‘18

Utilizing your professor’s extra hours are the key to success. While some students can overcome difficult classes independently, stopping by for even just a few personal sessions with professors and teaching assistants can help develop your relationships and optimize your assignments for the best work.

3. They Wish They’d Taken Advantage of Student Benefits and Discounts

“Did you know you made a pre-payment to get swole at the gym when you paid your tuition? You already paid the money and now the gym is open to you! Did you know printing is free if you’re enrolled as a student? That’s some major moola that you can save on ink, paper, and a large printer! Did you know that if you go to the movie, you can get your expensive ticket for less with a student discount? I didn’t know any of these things, and trust me, it feels like poop to see all those dollar bills jumping out of my wallet over the years. So utilize your discounts and benefits!” – Justin, University of California, Los Angeles ‘18

College tuition is rough, so you might as well take advantages of the different things that can save you a few bucks here and there. Students discounts are definitely everywhere; in fact, we put a list of 100+ discounts to help you out.

4. They Wish They’d Planned Their Schedules Better

“Don’t sign up for an 8AM class just because you did this all fours years in high school; it doesn’t mean it’s possible to wake up for your 8AM in college. Unless you’re open to the idea of falling back asleep while your deafening alarms annoy your roommates, falling asleep in class where your teachers may use you as an example, or falling asleep on your way to class which is a hazard and something I’ve seen, I would definitely figure out how to plan out your classes better. There is always a way.” – Taylor, New York University ‘17

Choosing classes is also essential, so planning and being honest and realistic with yourself will really help. Buy yourself a planner or utilize your calendar apps on your phone; they help a lot!

5. They Wish They Put In More Effort to Meet People

“Building a social life from scratch is scary and intimidating. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and go up to that stranger and strike up that conversation. You’re not alone, everyone is in the same boat. First semester everyone is open to meeting new people. You will meet people you don’t like and you’ll also meet your niche of people you’ll grow with! Try to solidify lasting friendships.” – Kristy, Chapman University ‘17

When you move into your dorms or join in a new organization, it’s good to know that most share the feeling of worry about making friends and being social. As cliche as it sounds, just be yourself and open to meet new people, because it comes a long way in college. And If you want more advice, fellow WayUp contributor Robert DiDonna crowdsourced a ton of great tips for making long-lasting friendships in college.

6. They Wish They’d Fixed Their Bad High School Habits Early on in College

“Definitely expect to change from who you were in high school. The dynamic of college is so different from that of high school that your work ethic, overall attentiveness, and even sometimes personality is bound to change in even the slightest.” – Chris, University of Southern California ‘18

College, without a doubt, is way different than high school. You’re an independent individual who has to handle meals, travel, and school work by yourself. Be ready to adjust, and if there were any unsavory habits you had in high school, be honest with yourself about them and take steps to fix them.

7. They Wish They’d Tried Every Experience

“Go crazy (but smart crazy)! Enjoy every moment while it lasts. Socially, college will probably be the best time of your life because there are so many opportunities to meet people and let loose. Whether it’s club meetings, cultural events, concerts, raves, dance groups, planning committees, or even parties, be open to every experience because college is probably one of the best times to get involved and have the time of your life.” – Vi, University of California, Irvine ‘17

For the most part, as important as schoolwork is, you shouldn’t be tied down by your classes; embrace the fact that there are so many things to do within your four years as an undergraduate. Think about it: you could be a member of a breakdancing club, cultural student association, orchestra, and food publication website at the same time; when else in your life can you do that ? Drop the school work for a bit, go out, and find something you love to do!

Your freshman year is what you make of it, so take these tips to heart. College is an awesome time and it is not something you should be afraid of!