I’m writing this article for those entering college for the first time, the current students trying to make it to the finish line, or those making the decision to go back. If someone had a time machine I would probably go back and redo a few things. I asked a few of my college friends to contribute their advice for students so you can hopefully make better decisions than I did. Some of the advice might be common sense to some but you’ll be surprised at the type of decisions us college students make when “having fun” become your number one priority.

“Get out of your comfort zone! Push yourself to new limits.” -Brenda Awuah, Senior

“Go to college they said, it’ll be fun they said,” while college certainly had its fun times, from experience, I can certainly say I was not prepared for the not so fun moments. Had I known certain things I probably would’ve skipped some of the bad decisions I made as a college student. Yes, there were times I felt like pulling out every strand of hair on my head, dropping out of school, and thinking maybe college isn’t for me. College was a struggle but I’ve made some life long memories and friendships that have been impactful.

“Don’t Procrastinate” –Teddy Henderson, Senior

Nelson Mandela once said, “it always seems impossible until it’s done.” This quote resonates with me so much because college was that thing that I once thought was impossible. As graduation is quickly approaching I can’t help but to think, “how did this happen to me?” I’m a first-generation college student and I must say this has been an interesting adventure. There was a lot of trial and error and figuring things out for myself. However, I’m so thankful for being able to attend a university with some of the most friendly and helpful staff members.

“Always make flash cards when studying for tests.” -Elizabeth Godinez, Junior

College will definitely be the place that you might make some mistakes, it’s okay. You might lose some friends, but I promise you’ll gain some new awesome ones. There will be times when you feel like it’s too hard and you’re going to feel the urge to want to give up…don’t! Get involved with the campus activities…something I wish I would’ve done.

“You need to know your limits, know your deadlines, and know that it’s perfectly alright to be different. Be sure not to over extend yourself and make sure you don’t leave everything to the last minute. Things pop up and emergencies happen, but don’t let waiting to the last minute be your normal. Most importantly, it’s alright to be different; that’s what makes you, you. Own it and have fun.” –Alex Jenkins, Senior

“Don’t get caught up in doing everything right. Despite the cliché no-one is perfect and, in the end, you’ll end up doing more harm than good if you don’t allow yourself wiggle room”
–Allison Hall, Junior

“There is no such thing as a normal bedtime in college.” –Tatyana Johnigan, Sophomore

“You should challenge yourself, step out of your comfort zone and get involved on campus.”
–Andrea Corbell, Senior

In conclusion, this is the time that you should really enjoy yourself. Don’t be so concerned of what others think of you. You’ll quickly learn that people aren’t thinking about you as much as you think and that we are all here for one thing…a DEGREE! I’ve met some of the most amazing people here especially within the mass communication program in which I’m grateful for. College will be some of the best times of your life but it will also be a time in which you’ll learn a few life lessons.