My Freshman Year Survival Kit

Note to self: you’re learning and growing every step of the way, and so is everyone else.

By: Sarah Huddart

Starting college is one of the most transformative experiences in a young adult’s life — and with that comes immense pressure.

Whether you’re moving away from home or still living at home, surviving your first year in college requires a balance of focus, self-care, and putting yourself out there — all while still being open to new experiences.

As a girl who survived freshman year, here’s what I would pass on:

1. Step outside of your comfort zone

Your freshman year is the perfect time to explore different interests.

Maybe you’ve always wanted to do something but feared the judgement of the people around you.

Well, this is the time to explore that. Getting involved in school or extracurricular activities is a great way to meet new people who can impact the rest of your college experience.

No one knows you, so become who you want to be.

2. Don’t give up after a week

I’m not going to lie, the first month of college was miserable for me. But I never gave up.

I was extremely home-sick and longed for something familiar. The first time I went back home after moving was probably three months later, and that was the best decision I’ve ever made.

I forced myself to get comfortable in my new situation, and it worked.

3. Become your own best friend.

In my first year I learned to not depend on other people all of the time.

I became comfortable with doing things by myself, and I genuinely had fun doing it.

For example, I could get whatever I wanted for dinner without someone else’s opinion.

I learned a lot about myself; what I want in my life, what I care about, what I like and dislike, and what I wanted to leave in high school.

Surviving and still thriving in your freshman year of college isn’t for the weak, but it is attainable.

Take advantage of the opportunities you have to learn more about yourself:

• meet new people
• make a dorm room a home
• try a new hobby

Most importantly, be kind to yourself– you’re learning and growing every step of the way, and so is everyone else.