Sep 5, 2016 | By Angel Juarez | UC Riverside
I know it can stressful just thinking about the next four years of your life, but don’t worry! College is like compensation for graduating high school (or reaching the next milestone in your life). Here are 8 important things to keep in mind during your first year (and to carry on forever!)
- GPA isn’t everything, but it still matters
- Do not fret over your academics too much. Yes, there is a minimum GPA requirement so you can continue to attend the college you go to and receive financial aid, but school should not be on your mind 24/7. Try changing the phrase “Study now, Party later.” to “Netflix now, Study in a bit.” Reward yourself for your good habits and you can get a good GPA while enjoying the college life.
- Get to know your professors
- Just because your professor is only teaching one of your General Education classes does not mean that they can’t give you a good recommendation. Go to their office hours and let them help you through one-on-one sessions. It is also a great opportunity for them to remember your name and face. You’d be surprised at how many people actually go to office hours.
- Find Yourself
- College is your canvas and you should be able to paint it as freely as you choose. Embrace your style and your hobbies! College can provide a diverse populous for you to make new friends and connect with people who have similar interests. Open up to the new life ahead of you.
- It’s Perfectly Okay If You Are Undeclared
- You don’t need to have declared a major by the time you apply to college. However, it is important to keep in mind that schools expect more out of you than just your test scores when you’re applying. You could choose a major to avoid that. Just know that you do not need to have your life together. Most adults still don’t have their life together, and you shouldn’t be expected to either.
- Make Time for Yourself
- As an extroverted introvert, my social life can be pretty exhausting, from study groups to club meetings, to kicking back with some friends every now and then. It can be a hassle to make time to relax and unwind for a few days by yourself. Cancel those weekend plans for a little “me time” and you’ll be recharged for the upcoming week.
- #Fitness Goals Can Actually Go a Long Way
- Your physical health can go a long way when you change it from a hashtag to a lifestyle. Make sure you are nourishing your body with proper nutrition and exercising regularly to keep your body and mind fully functioning. Eat everything in moderation and avoid those crazy diets. You don’t need that “summer bod.” You just need to make sure your body is doing well so you can do well too! (P.S. Try peanuts or walnuts, they help stimulate brain functions).
- SLEEP
- Whatever you do, do not sign up for that 8am class! Just because you woke up early for high school does not mean you can keep up the act for college. You know you would rather sleep in (and in reality you brain functions a lot better after 10am). Also, all-nighters are not recommended. I write from experience.
- Enjoy the Next 4 Years
- Don’t let the next four years fly by. Make some new friends and create new memories. It’s only a matter of time before you move into your dorm room and walk up the stage to receive your diploma. Enjoy yourself. Enjoy college.
Angel Juarez is an incoming second year at UC Riverside studying Theater and Dance for queer/gender identity and performance.
