Dear Freshman Me: Here Are 10 College Tips I Wish I Knew
Starting college can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re the first in your family to take this path. So what can you expect, and how do you navigate it? Here are 10 college tips I wish I knew as a freshman that may help you along the way.
1. Say YES To Everything!
The best way to build connections is by participating. Whether that’s a late-night food run, a morning walk, or joining a study group in Rod Library, saying yes helps you avoid isolation and creates meaningful relationships at UNI.
2. Join School Organizations Early!
Take time to settle in, but don’t wait too long to get involved. Join professional clubs in your major, hobby-based groups, or organizations that simply interest you. Getting involved early opens doors to leadership roles, which look great on résumés and help you form lasting connections.
3. Celebrate The “Small” Wins
Did you ace an exam, land a part-time job, or make a new friend? Celebrate it. As a first-generation student, each step forward matters. Recognize your progress and give yourself credit.
4. Ask for Help When You Need It
Professors and advisors want to see you succeed. Take advantage of office hours, review sessions, and campus support services. The sooner you do, the better your experience at UNI will be!
5. Remember You Belong Here
Every choice you’ve made has led you to this point. You earned your spot at UNI, and you deserve to be here. Embrace the uncertainty, show up each day, and trust that you’re on the right path.
6. Don’t Compare Your Journey
Your path may look different from others, and that’s okay. You’re paving a road no one in your family has taken, and that makes your journey unique and valuable.
7. Prioritize Internships
Internships provide real-world experience, help you build skills, and often make the difference in landing a job after graduation. Visit Career Services, polish your résumé, and apply early and often.
8. Adjust Your Study Habits
College-level studying requires more than memorization. You need to understand and retain material for your career. Try different methods like flashcards, rewriting notes, or group study sessions to see what works best for you.
9. Own Your Achievements
Don’t downplay how hard you’ve worked to get here. Balancing school, jobs, and responsibilities is not a small task. Be proud of your efforts and all you’re accomplishing!
10. Learn to Budget Early
Managing your money will reduce stress and allow you to enjoy your college experience. Explore meal planning, track your spending, and use resources like the financial aid office to stay on top of finances. Stay tuned for my next post, “Budgeting, Groceries, and Grown-Up Stuff: What No One Told Me About Adulting in College.”
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