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The 5 Worst Mistakes I Made My Freshman Year At College...

Somehow I thought I needed to be a part of the in crowd. Of course, at that time, I was a freshman at Tulane University… far from home and the comfort of my family and childhood friends. Being insecure in my newfound freedom, I thought it was so cool being one of the only freshmen invited to their parties. My advice for incoming freshman is to be yourself, and the right friends will surface in process.

2. Getting involved in a romantic relationship…

The right relationships can be fun. It is nice to go out, meet new people, and experience new things. However, college is a time of self discovery so getting involved too soon in a serious romantic relationship can completely derail you, both personally and professionally. Enjoy the college experience.

3. Not taking campus safety seriously…

One of my biggest mistakes and the hardest to share with readers… I felt invincible, like it couldn’t happen to me… I was wrong. I trusted a friend. I went to his dorm room to study alone and became a victim. BIG MISTAKE! Always take precautions on and off campus. For example, only study and travel in groups, carry personal safety products approved for your campus, lock you dorm door even when you are there, and don’t allow yourself to become impaired by alcohol. Live smart, and stay safe!

4. Failing to balance…

One of the hardest things for most college students their freshman year, myself included, is learning to balance personal activities, classes, and study time. College is a balancing act that must be performed throughout life, so it is the perfect opportunity to master this skill. Classes are only a semester or quarter long, so do not procrastinate when it comes to studying. Once you are behind, it is almost impossible to catch up. If you’ve been skipping classes, your professor will not be sympathetic. Bottom line, while it is important to set a schedule for personal activities to alleviate stress and create a sense of belonging, it is equally important to attend class and study consistently. Balance!

5. Failing to take care of my health…

Freshman year, I was all about working out, rock hard abs. However, between going out, pulling all nighters, and failing to maintain a healthy diet, I got sick a lot! As a result of my lifestyle, I struggled to maintain my grades. As an honor student on a full ride academic scholarship at one of the top 50 business schools in the country, failing to eat properly and get enough sleep were not my smartest choices.

In hindsight, all of the mistakes that I made my freshman year came from a place of insecurity, leaving the comforts of home and my childhood friends to embark upon a new adventure. Oddly enough, I grew up with a strong sense of self; so it surprised me, my friends, and my family. Trust in yourself. Don’t lose sight of who you are throughout your freshman year. If you have already started making these mistakes, just remember… it is never too late to make changes and redeem yourself.

Live Dorm Smart,

-Megan