Finding Happiness: Fabulous Freshman Tips

It may only be June, but if there’s one recurring thought young ladies can’t seem to remove from their minds during these summer months, it’s all about college! Whether you’re a current university student or a recent high school graduate preparing for the life-changing transition, a mix of excitement and nerves may be plaguing your recent thoughts. But never fear – fresh off their freshman year, I asked eight lovely college ladies what advice they would offer to any incoming freshmen (or college students in general) regarding the emotional roller coaster that is the college transition.

“Just be yourself. The great thing about college is that you get a fresh start, so make sure you’re being who YOU want to be. You are absolutely going to find people who share your interests, so don’t worry about fitting in. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. There’s always someone to help you out if you need it. Talk to the professor, get a tutor, start a study group. College is one of the most fun and exciting experience you can have, so don’t stress about it” Erin F.

“Don’t be afraid to say “Hi” to anyone and everyone. The worst that can happen is you’ll never see them again. The best is that you’ll be friends for the rest of your life” Sarah D.

“Don’t be afraid of talking to others! 99.9% of the people around you are in the same situation as you. Friends can be found almost anywhere on campus. You’ve just got to be adventurous” Kathryn B.

“You may feel homesick in the beginning, but don’t give up – you will find your place. Just don’t forget who you are and don’t let others shape you into something you’re not. There will be people who believe in the same things as you and who are looking for the same things as you” Natalia S.

“Don’t try too hard to be everyone’s best friend. Just be yourself and you will meet amazing people who love you for who you are. Be open to exploring and learning new things, but don’t lose yourself in the process” Sabrina R.

“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You will make friends in due time. The important thing to not stress about it. College is much more rigorous than high school, but as long as you figure out studying habits that suit you – whether you work better in your room or in the library – you eventually find what works. Also, remember to relax! Everyone needs a little “me” time to unwind and get her mind off of things” Danielle F.

“Do something entirely new that you’ve always wanted to. I never sang or ballroom danced and neither of those activities will get me a job, but I felt like I was living life more fully. When you see something that pulls at your heartstrings but you don’t have any friends who are interested to join you, don’t let that hold you back. Time with yourself is beautiful – scary at times, but ultimately very essential” Andrea D.

“Give everything time. It takes time to make friends, time to find a routine, time to manage your workload. Be patient with yourself because you can be your own worst enemy or your own best friend. Just know that you are different from everyone else so never feel like you should be doing the same exact things as everyone else” Tricia C.

We are told by our elders that college is, “the best four years of your life, so live it right.” But as a result, we put way too much pressure on ourselves to make it perfect, producing a myriad of emotions and ultimately, disappointment. The true key to “living it right” means being open to change and not setting expectations. College is the time to grow in every aspect of your life: in mind, character, and spirit. So throw caution to the wind and get your hands dirty in a new and revitalizing experience. Keep an open mind and put yourself out there – you gain wisdom and perspective with each new person you meet. But most importantly, always remember to hold on tight to what lies within your heart.

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. Whether you’re currently a college student or preparing for the transition into freshman year, she hopes that you are open to making new friends and trying new things! But most importantly, she hopes you remain true to yourself because true happiness lies within the heart!