College may be scary, intriguing and exciting. Some people have been preparing their whole lives for that moment. Taking extracurriculars, studying hard for the SATs, choosing their universities and making sure that they know everything they need to get in the university of their dreams. Others, well, others don’t have a clue what they want to do with their lives. But honestly, who has a clue overall? It’s scary to one day be a kid and the other be an adult that has to make important decisions that will affect your future. But we will eventually grow, and the sooner we accept that and take action, the better. I’m a sophomore in The University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras campus, band today I will be sharing with you what you will be expecting your first year of college and a few tips. Let’s begin!
What to expect as a freshman?
- Diversity: One of the first things that you will notice right away is how different everyone is. People from different cultures, with different beliefs and religions, people with different political views, people with different fashion sense, etc.
- Liberty: You don’t need permission to go to the bathroom or to go outside to take a call. You can wear whatever you want unless a professor request otherwise. Also, you may be able to have snacks in your classroom and chew gum, and use your phone or tablet in class. All you have to do is ask or listen to your professor’s rules. Because you choose your classes, you have the “blessing” to choose carefully who your professor will be and you can drop out of any of them if you want.
- The professors: The professors will be a lot different than what you’re used to. I’ve noticed that the pace in college is kind of fast and your professors will not stop every single time you didn’t write down what they just said. It’s your responsibility to know the material and datelines for all of your classes and school work. Also, if you don’t like one of them, you can change your class and/or professor.
- Homework and presentations: Doing your homework and reading is extremely important and doing that will say a lot about you as a student. You have to dress according to your presentation, and being prepared with information is key.
- Friends and classmates: You’ll notice that you will not have that extra time to go out and hangout with friends, therefore, every little occasion counts. Grabbing coffee or snack will count has a date with your friends and classmates. Planning to have breakfast or lunch with a friend will be the perfect excuse to bond on your schedule.
- Money: The college life will be a little a bit pricey. You’ll need money for copies, food, snacks, water, books, clothes, events nearby and other essentials. I recommend you organize yourself and make sure you’re making your money last.
- Clubs and extracurriculars: College is full of educational clubs. I suggest you join at least one organization or club because that will be great for your résumé.
The college life will be different for EVERYONE. My experiences will not be yours. You’ll see all kind of stuff and will experience a lot of amazing things. It’s up to you to choose whats right for you and to make the most out of it. Just remember to keep a positive mind, be proactive, analyze your decisions and be responsible, be yourself always but don’t be afraid to change and don’t let anybody decide for you.
I wish you the best always and may all of your dreams come true.
With love,
Clara Villaman
Clara Villaman 