8 Thoughts Freshmen Have at the End of Their First Year in College
This article was originally written for Fresh U by Graysen Reid. It has been given minor edits before re-posting.
Now that spring break has come and gone, your first year of college is coming to an end, and you and all of the other freshmen can look forward to the summer. We have seen both good times and bad and there are definitely a lot of thoughts that are running through our minds. Whether you are staying at your current college, transferring or planning on graduating early, each of these thoughts have probably crossed your mind as your first year comes to a close.
1. It's Almost Over?
It seems so crazy to think that we have been in college for almost a whole year. It feels as though we were just moving in a couple of days ago. Between classes, jobs and other extracurricular activities, this year has flown by.
2. It's Almost Over!
On the flip side, it's almost over! You have survived the first year and you are that much closer to graduation day. Up next is summer break, with new opportunities to study abroad, work, take additional classes or simply relax. No matter what you are doing this summer, you can rest easy knowing that you have made it through your first year of college.
3. What Have I Actually Learned?
Even if you had to take mostly prerequisite classes for your first year, I am sure you have had many new experiences over the last couple of semesters. Maybe you learned how to do laundry for the first time, or maybe you learned the best way for you to study. Your first year being on your own has allowed you to learn all kinds of new things.
4. I'm Going to Miss My Friends!
You have spent the last nine months developing new friendships and meeting new people, but now you have to leave them for the summer! Unfortunately, you each have to do your own thing during the summer, but don't worry—you'll see them again soon enough next fall!
5. My GPA is Okay...Right?
Maybe you had a tough time adjusting to the rigor of college classes. Maybe you jumped right in and ended the year with a perfect 4.0. Your GPA is fine no matter what the number is and you are much more than just that number. You have plenty of time to work to make it whatever you want.
6. No More Dining Hall Food!
For the next few months, you get to enjoy the quality home cooked meals that your dining hall just can't live up to. Enjoy all of your favorite meals while you are home because you get to avoid your go-to dining hall chicken strips for the next three months.
7. What Now?
Now that you are adjusted to your college life, you may be asking what your next step should be. Besides your classes, should you get an internship or join more organizations? Or do you need a part-time job? You will have plenty of time to figure out what is best for you over the coming months.
8. It Was All Worth It.
All those long nights that you spent in the library cramming for your midterm might have felt absolutely terrible. However, now that is almost over it feels so good to have it all behind you. You are so much stronger now than you were in the beginning!
Your first year is completely unique to you and your own experiences. All college students were a part of the freshmen class at some point, so we know it has all happened so fast, but the rest of your college experience will continue to blow by. Appreciate it while it lasts because before you know it, you'll be wearing that cap and gown and walking across the stage. Whatever this year has meant to you, it's almost over and you're almost to your second year. Congratulations...you made it!
Related:
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