Hello, my readers,

When you look online, you see everyone in college looking smart, and every room is set up with pretty bedspreads, and you talk politely to your friends. But they don’t tell you how many myths there are online. Freshman self, you will be shocked. Now this is not supposed to scare you. I am going to break down some things about college that I thought would happen that didn’t, and things that I didn’t expect. Let’s dive into this.

Everyone moves past High School:  Ok, I was told everyone has this insane transformation over the summer after high school graduation. But no one actually magically changes. What happens is, yes, there is a change, but you actually get to college, and there is so much going on that no one is going to magically feel like they are brand new. I would say give yourself and everyone else grace. That doesn’t mean to let people cross your boundaries, but it does mean some people might feel a little more touchy, and some people will feel fine.

You feel most homesick in the first semester: Sorry to tell you, but I honestly don’t think most people feel fully homesick until much further into the first two years of college. I didn’t want to be home until the second semester of college, and honestly, I still had homesickness once in a while, my second year. I am not saying this to scare you. Actually, it’s pretty normal, and Iowa has amazing resources to help you through any of those slumps.

College will make you amazing at studying: Some things will come natrually especially in your major, but every class requires different study techniques. I also am not great at tests, so it took me forever to figure out how to study them. Also, every professor teaches diffrently so every test and paper will have different requirements. My best tip is to be ok to make mistakes. My rule of thumb is that every first test and paper of every class is a learning experience. Don’t beat yourself up over a lower grade. Usually, you can always ask a professor in there office hours what you did wrong and how you can do better. But also know every test you get through is a win.

You will meet all your life-long friends in college: Yes, you will!!!  Don’t worry, I have made so many amazing friendships through college BUT you will go through friendships a few times. That is NORMAL, it is not a problem with either person, what it is is you are becoming more yourself. You will find what you are ok with and what you can’t take. We all have different needs and boundries so understand that sometimes even after 4 months of thinking you will become bestfriends, things can change instantly. That’s ok, you will move on, and so will the other person.

The Freshmen 15 will happen: While yes, gaining weight is a potential “side effect” of college, everyone’s body is super different, so don’t freak out if you gain or lose some weight. Not only does Iowa have resources if you’re worried about either, but honestly, your body fluctuates constantly. My best tip for you is to take care of your body, as you need to. Don’t let others tell you what is good or not. We also have lots of healthy options in our dining halls with plenty of carbs, protein, fruits, veggies, etc., plus multiple of our dorms have gyms, also the Rec. center on weekdays during the school year opens at 5 am and closes at midnight. But again, stress and long study nights can make your body overwhelmed. But don’t worry, again, you know what you need.

You can skip a week of classes, and the professors don’t care: Actually, your professors are very dedicated to the work they do; they want you there, and there are still attendance policies. Now, if you’re sick, physically or mentally, or have personal family stuff, just email them to let them know. Professors are not scary, communicate let them know if your stuggling. They usually want to work things through with you. So talk to them and go to class. I promise, not only will it help your grade, but you will do so much better in your classes.

College is amazing, truly. You will make life-long friends, go on those coffee dates, join clubs, and find who YOU are. All of that is true, but also understand now with all the social media platforms and everyone saying what they want, you get to choose how your college experiences define you. Last, don’t feel like you’re doing it wrong. College is your time to shine, be you without your family telling you what to do. It is truly an amazing experience. Don’t worry, you will do amazing. I hope this helps you, and I can’t wait to see you on campus.

Cheers,
Rose