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What’s something you wish you knew before going into college?
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14 answers
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Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Emanuel !
My answer to what I wish I knew before college may be different from what you may be getting at by asking, but a variety of answers may prove to be inspiring and helpful for your future venture as a college student.
Nothing really surprised me in college. I was the type of person that just lived day by day and went with the flow without worrying about the next year or my career. I just sort of kept my eyes and ears open and took advantage of good opportunities that trained me for my career. The only thing I wish I had known before college was how to fix cars because I remember the old car I had always needed repair. An expense that a college student doesn't need.
My perspective is that your everyday life will prepare you for college. I adapted very quickly to living in a far away city, on my own and enjoying a new found freedom as a 17 year old. It's really going to depend on how much responsibility you took on during high school age, what your mindset was toward high school, the work and your capacity to handle school work and employment, too. Getting a wide variety of social interactions with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds.
So my response is one more of advice than a list of things other people wished they knew before college. You have to remember and accept that everyone's life is different so their college experience is unique and yours will be too. My advice is to strive to be the best high school student possible. Develop written and verbal communication skills and be active with groups, volunteer work and fun activities to foster social and intellectual skills and life experience.
Other than that, the hardest thing about a college education is finding a parking space. I wish you well !
My answer to what I wish I knew before college may be different from what you may be getting at by asking, but a variety of answers may prove to be inspiring and helpful for your future venture as a college student.
Nothing really surprised me in college. I was the type of person that just lived day by day and went with the flow without worrying about the next year or my career. I just sort of kept my eyes and ears open and took advantage of good opportunities that trained me for my career. The only thing I wish I had known before college was how to fix cars because I remember the old car I had always needed repair. An expense that a college student doesn't need.
My perspective is that your everyday life will prepare you for college. I adapted very quickly to living in a far away city, on my own and enjoying a new found freedom as a 17 year old. It's really going to depend on how much responsibility you took on during high school age, what your mindset was toward high school, the work and your capacity to handle school work and employment, too. Getting a wide variety of social interactions with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds.
So my response is one more of advice than a list of things other people wished they knew before college. You have to remember and accept that everyone's life is different so their college experience is unique and yours will be too. My advice is to strive to be the best high school student possible. Develop written and verbal communication skills and be active with groups, volunteer work and fun activities to foster social and intellectual skills and life experience.
Other than that, the hardest thing about a college education is finding a parking space. I wish you well !
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
783
Answers
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I wished that I had done more campus navigation.
Basically, going to the college campus, obtaining a map, and locating where everything was and how I could utilize it, if I needed it.
This includes things like the financial aid office, advising and registration, security and parking, housing and student services, and even exploring the library and the academic assistance labs, if I needed academic help.
So, campus navigation and exploration I feel is mandatory for success.
Basically, going to the college campus, obtaining a map, and locating where everything was and how I could utilize it, if I needed it.
This includes things like the financial aid office, advising and registration, security and parking, housing and student services, and even exploring the library and the academic assistance labs, if I needed academic help.
So, campus navigation and exploration I feel is mandatory for success.
Updated
Amrit’s Answer
I wish I knew how important it is to find a balance between academics, personal growth, and social life. It’s easy to feel pressure to focus solely on grades, but college is also about discovering who you are, building relationships, and exploring interests outside the classroom. Prioritizing time management early on would have helped me balance studying, joining clubs, exercising, and taking care of my mental health.
I also wish I’d known that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s from professors, advisors, or friends, there’s no shame in seeking guidance. College is a learning experience, and leaning on others can make it less overwhelming and more rewarding.
Lastly, I wish I knew how important it is to take risks and step outside of my comfort zone. Whether it’s applying for an internship, joining a club, or taking a class that seems intimidating, those experiences often lead to the most growth and unexpected opportunities.
I also wish I’d known that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s from professors, advisors, or friends, there’s no shame in seeking guidance. College is a learning experience, and leaning on others can make it less overwhelming and more rewarding.
Lastly, I wish I knew how important it is to take risks and step outside of my comfort zone. Whether it’s applying for an internship, joining a club, or taking a class that seems intimidating, those experiences often lead to the most growth and unexpected opportunities.
Updated
Yashasvi’s Answer
Hi Emanuel, before going to college or university, I wish I had known how important it is to strike a balance between academics, personal growth, and social connections. College isn’t just about grades; it’s also a time to explore your interests, network, and build skills that go beyond the classroom. Time management and prioritization are crucial—procrastination can catch up quickly if you’re not careful. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, whether from professors, peers, or campus resources—it can save you a lot of stress. And most importantly, trust in your ability to handle the challenges that come your way. You’re more capable than you think, so don’t stress out—you’ve got this!
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
I echo what everyone else has said. One thing I would like to add is almost everyone going into their freshman year is in the same situation. Most people are out living on their own for the first time. Most people are in a new environment where they don't know many people if any at all. That nervous feeling is normal! Don't be afraid to go up to someone in your classes or in your dorm and introduce yourself. Many people want to make new friends but are scared to take the first step. The friends you meet in college could end up being life-long friends, but you could miss out if you aren't putting yourself out there.
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Hello Emanuel,
I hope you're doing well. Great question. I wish I knew that choosing your major in college should be motivated by your passion and not what you or others think will make you rich and successful. In college, I pursued a business degree with an emphasis in accounting. This was not what I was at all passionate about. As a young child growing up, I loved things that allowed me to be artistic. However, I grew up in a traditional Asian household where my parents saw art and design as a hobby and not something I should go to college to study. My parents weren't being mean, but they had ideas of what success looked like and wanted the best for me. So I didn't go to art school like I wanted and went to college for a business degree.
What I learned is that I wasn't happy at all taking accounting and business classes. However, I was able to make the best of it by taking some classes in marketing where I could apply my creativity to my work. I still graduated with a business degree, but I still wanted to get a job in graphic design. I was able to get a job at an agency and self learn the things I wasn't able to in college to pursue a career in design. I've been able to successfully move my career in a direction that aligns to my passion, but I had to take the harder route.
The lesson here is to follow what you think you will be passionate about and not what you think will make the most money. Use college to find and go after what you want to wake up every day doing. If you follow your passion, you can find success and money. Go out there and do what you love!
I hope you're doing well. Great question. I wish I knew that choosing your major in college should be motivated by your passion and not what you or others think will make you rich and successful. In college, I pursued a business degree with an emphasis in accounting. This was not what I was at all passionate about. As a young child growing up, I loved things that allowed me to be artistic. However, I grew up in a traditional Asian household where my parents saw art and design as a hobby and not something I should go to college to study. My parents weren't being mean, but they had ideas of what success looked like and wanted the best for me. So I didn't go to art school like I wanted and went to college for a business degree.
What I learned is that I wasn't happy at all taking accounting and business classes. However, I was able to make the best of it by taking some classes in marketing where I could apply my creativity to my work. I still graduated with a business degree, but I still wanted to get a job in graphic design. I was able to get a job at an agency and self learn the things I wasn't able to in college to pursue a career in design. I've been able to successfully move my career in a direction that aligns to my passion, but I had to take the harder route.
The lesson here is to follow what you think you will be passionate about and not what you think will make the most money. Use college to find and go after what you want to wake up every day doing. If you follow your passion, you can find success and money. Go out there and do what you love!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7216
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Emanuel!
Understanding What to Know Before Entering College
MY ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTION:-
{I WISHED I KNEW MY RELATIVES WERE GOING TO DIE SO YOUNG!}
When I was a boy of 13 my parents bought me a Christmas present then a birthday present both of them were refractor lens telescopes. I started regularly observing the heavens. I wanted to be an astronomer. I made it to an amateur astronomer anyway. My parents could not afford an eight-inch reflector telescope which was $375 in 1970. I took to grinding my own telescope mirrors. That is the most precise manual skill a human can perform.
In senior high school this course of study towards astrophysics or astronomy necessitated taking really heavy stem subjects like physics. In 1972 the physics teacher taught us computing. Over the next 52 years I have continued studying programming and developing software. I had to repeat grade 11, my parents allowed me to do it in 1973. The idea was to get me into university. In 1974 I was in grade 12 and my 38 year old uncle, my father's brother died of a massive coronary. I could not study chemistry in senior high school because the class was overcrowded. Consequentially I could not study medicine.
I started at a new university, Griffith in Brisbane. Then the weirdest thing happened. My uncle Mike's old supervisor Professor Masters, from 1960 came to lecture in biochemistry at Griffith. I call it "An Act of God." Well yours faithfully changed majors to biochemistry and started reading up on nutrition. After my first degree I went to another university to do fourth year postgraduate biochemistry. I taught first year dentistry and second year medicine.
The topic that really interested me was Californian Professor Linus Pauling's orthomolecular nutrition. This involves the treatment of diseases with select nutrients: God's Pharmacopeia - not man's. I had the good fortune to talk to Lady Dr Phyllis Cilento in 1981. She was recommending me studying orthomolecular nutrition. This involves using 'the right molecules' like amino-acids, vitamins, and minerals to treat illnesses. Phyllis told me to do the postgraduate diploma in Sydney. I did that then worked with natural therapists.
My father died too of a coronary at 50 years of age in 1985. I enrolled with a third university and studied to be a dietitian. I had seen enough coronary artery disease in my family. I commenced helping people as a dietitian-nutritionist.
I combined the two talents when in 1994 a patient told me that the one-day sample menus were not sufficient to tell her what to eat. This was the nutrition education resource in written form utilized world-wide by nutritionists and dietitians. Then there were the food group selection lists from many dietitians. This resource did not cut the mustard either. Too many mathematical demands on the patient, who was unsure for weeks, whether they were doing this properly.
Well this patient wanted a 14-day food menu! I set about crafting the necessary software to do the job. That involved Equations of Randomized Iterative Complementation {ERIC}. Seven computer languages later I made the Diet Wizard. ------------------------> https://www.youtube.com/@JAMES_CONSTANTINE_FRANGOS
Have a look at my profile here's the address https://www.careervillage.org/users/179930/?next=
Go to the About James Constantine section it's a header.
Scroll down to the query entitled "in lay person terms what do you actually do at work?" I FIX SICK PEOPLE.
Here you find all the nutrients described. Also you'll be able to look up the food sources that they come from and what these substances do in the body. They increase human performance in the areas of psychological physical sports academic procedures. So you can get far more work done when you're properly nourished.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE'S ANSWER:-
Entering college is a significant transition that can shape your academic and personal life. Here are several key aspects that many students wish they had known before embarking on their college journey:
1. Time Management is Crucial
One of the most important skills you will need in college is effective time management. Unlike high school, where schedules are often structured and monitored by teachers, college requires you to take responsibility for your own time. Classes may only meet a few times a week, leaving large gaps of unstructured time. It’s essential to develop a system that works for you—whether it’s using planners, digital calendars, or apps—to keep track of assignments, exams, and personal commitments.
2. The Importance of Networking
Building relationships with professors, classmates, and professionals in your field can significantly impact your college experience and future career opportunities. Engaging in networking early on can lead to internships, job offers, and valuable mentorships. Attend office hours, join clubs related to your major, and participate in campus events to expand your network.
3. Financial Literacy Matters
Understanding how to manage finances is critical as you transition into adulthood. Many students face challenges with budgeting for tuition, housing, food, and other expenses. Familiarize yourself with student loans, credit cards, and budgeting techniques early on to avoid financial stress later.
4. Mental Health Awareness
College can be overwhelming due to academic pressures and social adjustments. It’s vital to prioritize mental health by seeking support when needed—whether through counseling services offered by the university or peer support groups. Developing coping strategies for stress management will be beneficial throughout your college years.
5. Academic Rigor Varies by Major
The level of difficulty in courses can vary greatly depending on your chosen major. Some fields may require more intensive study or practical work than others. Researching the demands of your intended major beforehand can help set realistic expectations about workload and study habits.
6. Extracurricular Activities Enhance Experience
Getting involved in extracurricular activities not only enriches your college experience but also helps build skills that are attractive to employers after graduation. Whether it’s joining clubs related to your interests or participating in volunteer work or internships, these experiences can provide practical skills and enhance your resume.
7. Independence Comes with Responsibility
College often represents the first time many students live away from home without parental supervision. This newfound independence comes with responsibilities such as managing daily tasks like laundry, cooking meals, and maintaining a clean living space—all while balancing academics.
In summary, entering college is an exciting yet challenging phase that requires preparation across various aspects of life—from academics to personal finance and mental health management.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA provides extensive resources on mental health issues faced by college students including stress management techniques and the importance of seeking help.
2. National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA)
NASPA offers insights into student affairs practices which emphasize the importance of networking and involvement in extracurricular activities for student success.
3. U.S. Department of Education
This source provides information on financial literacy resources available for students including managing student loans and budgeting effectively while attending college.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|========================God Bless You, Richly!============================|
|======================James Constantine Frangos==========================|
|============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN================|
|===========Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!===============|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Understanding What to Know Before Entering College
MY ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTION:-
{I WISHED I KNEW MY RELATIVES WERE GOING TO DIE SO YOUNG!}
When I was a boy of 13 my parents bought me a Christmas present then a birthday present both of them were refractor lens telescopes. I started regularly observing the heavens. I wanted to be an astronomer. I made it to an amateur astronomer anyway. My parents could not afford an eight-inch reflector telescope which was $375 in 1970. I took to grinding my own telescope mirrors. That is the most precise manual skill a human can perform.
In senior high school this course of study towards astrophysics or astronomy necessitated taking really heavy stem subjects like physics. In 1972 the physics teacher taught us computing. Over the next 52 years I have continued studying programming and developing software. I had to repeat grade 11, my parents allowed me to do it in 1973. The idea was to get me into university. In 1974 I was in grade 12 and my 38 year old uncle, my father's brother died of a massive coronary. I could not study chemistry in senior high school because the class was overcrowded. Consequentially I could not study medicine.
I started at a new university, Griffith in Brisbane. Then the weirdest thing happened. My uncle Mike's old supervisor Professor Masters, from 1960 came to lecture in biochemistry at Griffith. I call it "An Act of God." Well yours faithfully changed majors to biochemistry and started reading up on nutrition. After my first degree I went to another university to do fourth year postgraduate biochemistry. I taught first year dentistry and second year medicine.
The topic that really interested me was Californian Professor Linus Pauling's orthomolecular nutrition. This involves the treatment of diseases with select nutrients: God's Pharmacopeia - not man's. I had the good fortune to talk to Lady Dr Phyllis Cilento in 1981. She was recommending me studying orthomolecular nutrition. This involves using 'the right molecules' like amino-acids, vitamins, and minerals to treat illnesses. Phyllis told me to do the postgraduate diploma in Sydney. I did that then worked with natural therapists.
My father died too of a coronary at 50 years of age in 1985. I enrolled with a third university and studied to be a dietitian. I had seen enough coronary artery disease in my family. I commenced helping people as a dietitian-nutritionist.
I combined the two talents when in 1994 a patient told me that the one-day sample menus were not sufficient to tell her what to eat. This was the nutrition education resource in written form utilized world-wide by nutritionists and dietitians. Then there were the food group selection lists from many dietitians. This resource did not cut the mustard either. Too many mathematical demands on the patient, who was unsure for weeks, whether they were doing this properly.
Well this patient wanted a 14-day food menu! I set about crafting the necessary software to do the job. That involved Equations of Randomized Iterative Complementation {ERIC}. Seven computer languages later I made the Diet Wizard. ------------------------> https://www.youtube.com/@JAMES_CONSTANTINE_FRANGOS
Have a look at my profile here's the address https://www.careervillage.org/users/179930/?next=
Go to the About James Constantine section it's a header.
Scroll down to the query entitled "in lay person terms what do you actually do at work?" I FIX SICK PEOPLE.
Here you find all the nutrients described. Also you'll be able to look up the food sources that they come from and what these substances do in the body. They increase human performance in the areas of psychological physical sports academic procedures. So you can get far more work done when you're properly nourished.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE'S ANSWER:-
Entering college is a significant transition that can shape your academic and personal life. Here are several key aspects that many students wish they had known before embarking on their college journey:
1. Time Management is Crucial
One of the most important skills you will need in college is effective time management. Unlike high school, where schedules are often structured and monitored by teachers, college requires you to take responsibility for your own time. Classes may only meet a few times a week, leaving large gaps of unstructured time. It’s essential to develop a system that works for you—whether it’s using planners, digital calendars, or apps—to keep track of assignments, exams, and personal commitments.
2. The Importance of Networking
Building relationships with professors, classmates, and professionals in your field can significantly impact your college experience and future career opportunities. Engaging in networking early on can lead to internships, job offers, and valuable mentorships. Attend office hours, join clubs related to your major, and participate in campus events to expand your network.
3. Financial Literacy Matters
Understanding how to manage finances is critical as you transition into adulthood. Many students face challenges with budgeting for tuition, housing, food, and other expenses. Familiarize yourself with student loans, credit cards, and budgeting techniques early on to avoid financial stress later.
4. Mental Health Awareness
College can be overwhelming due to academic pressures and social adjustments. It’s vital to prioritize mental health by seeking support when needed—whether through counseling services offered by the university or peer support groups. Developing coping strategies for stress management will be beneficial throughout your college years.
5. Academic Rigor Varies by Major
The level of difficulty in courses can vary greatly depending on your chosen major. Some fields may require more intensive study or practical work than others. Researching the demands of your intended major beforehand can help set realistic expectations about workload and study habits.
6. Extracurricular Activities Enhance Experience
Getting involved in extracurricular activities not only enriches your college experience but also helps build skills that are attractive to employers after graduation. Whether it’s joining clubs related to your interests or participating in volunteer work or internships, these experiences can provide practical skills and enhance your resume.
7. Independence Comes with Responsibility
College often represents the first time many students live away from home without parental supervision. This newfound independence comes with responsibilities such as managing daily tasks like laundry, cooking meals, and maintaining a clean living space—all while balancing academics.
In summary, entering college is an exciting yet challenging phase that requires preparation across various aspects of life—from academics to personal finance and mental health management.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA provides extensive resources on mental health issues faced by college students including stress management techniques and the importance of seeking help.
2. National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA)
NASPA offers insights into student affairs practices which emphasize the importance of networking and involvement in extracurricular activities for student success.
3. U.S. Department of Education
This source provides information on financial literacy resources available for students including managing student loans and budgeting effectively while attending college.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|========================God Bless You, Richly!============================|
|======================James Constantine Frangos==========================|
|============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN================|
|===========Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!===============|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Ah, the big college or university question! 🤔 It’s one of those experiences that everyone talks about, but you never truly know what it's like until you’re deep in the mix of lectures, deadlines, and late-night ramen. 🍜 Let me hit you with a few nuggets of wisdom that nobody tells you, but everyone wishes they knew before stepping foot into that campus:
1. Time Management is Everything 🕒
It’s not just about juggling homework and classes—it’s about managing your entire life. In high school, you have a lot more structure (even if you don’t realize it). College? It’s a different beast. No one will remind you about assignments or upcoming exams. You’ll need to keep track of everything yourself, and trust me, you’ll find yourself in some awkward situations when you forget about a midterm or group project. My advice? Get a planner or use a digital calendar to stay on top of assignments and deadlines. And for the love of snacks, don't skip your study time! 📚
2. Making Friends Takes Effort 👯
In high school, you’re usually in one place with a set group of people every day, so friendships are easier to form. College? It’s a sea of people, and it’s up to you to make connections. But don’t worry—you don’t have to be the life of the party or the loudest person in the room to meet friends. Join clubs, attend events, sit next to new people in class, or even volunteer. You’d be amazed how many new study buddies or lifelong friends you’ll meet just by showing up to stuff. 🌟
3. It’s Okay Not to Know Exactly What You’re Doing 💭
So many people act like they’ve got it all figured out, but newsflash: nobody really does! 😅 Going to college isn’t just about getting the degree; it’s about figuring out who you are. So if you change your major, career path, or even interests halfway through—guess what? That’s totally fine! College is all about exploring and finding your niche. If you don’t know exactly what you want to do, embrace it. You’re learning more about yourself as you go. 🎓
4. The Freshman 15 is Real, but It Doesn’t Have to Be 🍔
Everyone talks about the infamous Freshman 15—the 15 pounds you may or may not gain due to pizza, burgers, and the fact that you’re not walking as much as you did in high school. But, let’s get real here: it’s all about balance. Yes, indulge in those midnight snacks (I mean, pizza does taste better at 2 a.m.), but make time for exercise and try to eat things that won’t turn your body into a human sponge. Maybe join a gym or just walk around campus (you’ll see more of it than you think). 🏃♂️🏃♀️
5. Not Every Class Will Be Life-Changing 🎓
Some classes will feel like mind-blowing experiences, others will leave you questioning why you’re even there. And that’s okay. College is a mix of the amazing and the meh. But just because a class doesn’t spark joy (thanks, Marie Kondo) doesn’t mean it’s useless. There’s always something you can take away, even if it’s just learning how to handle boring stuff with a smile. 😂
6. Ask for Help When You Need It 🙋♀️
Whether it’s a professor, a TA, or even a peer, there are tons of resources available. Professors are there to help you succeed, but they can’t read your mind. So don’t be afraid to reach out if you’re struggling with a topic. College is not about “toughing it out” alone. Use all the resources—tutoring centers, study groups, or even friends who pretend to know what’s going on in class. 🤷♂️
7. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others 💔
It’s easy to look around and think everyone has their life together. Meanwhile, you’re just trying to get through the day without spilling coffee on your notes. Guess what? Everyone’s in the same boat, pretending like they’ve got it all under control. Everyone’s journey is different. Focus on your growth, and don’t stress because someone else has a better GPA or a cooler internship. You’re exactly where you need to be.
8. Financial Management is Key 💸
Just because you have a student loan doesn’t mean you can spend like a millionaire. Budgeting is your best friend. This means keeping track of your spending on those late-night takeout orders and avoiding the temptation to splurge on that cute shirt you don’t really need. Consider learning how to cook simple meals too—it’ll save you both money and time! 🧑🍳
9. College is About the Experience 🎉
Yes, getting that degree is important, but so is the college experience itself. Network, meet new people, and do something out of your comfort zone. Travel, join clubs, or attend campus events. Explore new hobbies you never thought you’d like (who knows? You might become a yoga master or start knitting in your spare time). Those are the things you’ll remember forever.
---
Key Takeaways (aka Emanuel's Epic Wisdom™):
Time management will be your best friend (get on it now).
Make friends, and don’t be afraid to talk to strangers.
It’s okay to not have it all figured out.
Balance your junk food with exercise.
Some classes are boring—roll with it.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Don’t compare yourself to others (seriously, don’t).
Budget your money like a pro.
Live the experience—college is about growth!
So, buckle up for the wild ride ahead, Emanuel! It's gonna be crazy, but you’ll learn a ton and have fun along the way. And remember, it’s not about the degree—it’s about the journey! 🎢
1. Time Management is Everything 🕒
It’s not just about juggling homework and classes—it’s about managing your entire life. In high school, you have a lot more structure (even if you don’t realize it). College? It’s a different beast. No one will remind you about assignments or upcoming exams. You’ll need to keep track of everything yourself, and trust me, you’ll find yourself in some awkward situations when you forget about a midterm or group project. My advice? Get a planner or use a digital calendar to stay on top of assignments and deadlines. And for the love of snacks, don't skip your study time! 📚
2. Making Friends Takes Effort 👯
In high school, you’re usually in one place with a set group of people every day, so friendships are easier to form. College? It’s a sea of people, and it’s up to you to make connections. But don’t worry—you don’t have to be the life of the party or the loudest person in the room to meet friends. Join clubs, attend events, sit next to new people in class, or even volunteer. You’d be amazed how many new study buddies or lifelong friends you’ll meet just by showing up to stuff. 🌟
3. It’s Okay Not to Know Exactly What You’re Doing 💭
So many people act like they’ve got it all figured out, but newsflash: nobody really does! 😅 Going to college isn’t just about getting the degree; it’s about figuring out who you are. So if you change your major, career path, or even interests halfway through—guess what? That’s totally fine! College is all about exploring and finding your niche. If you don’t know exactly what you want to do, embrace it. You’re learning more about yourself as you go. 🎓
4. The Freshman 15 is Real, but It Doesn’t Have to Be 🍔
Everyone talks about the infamous Freshman 15—the 15 pounds you may or may not gain due to pizza, burgers, and the fact that you’re not walking as much as you did in high school. But, let’s get real here: it’s all about balance. Yes, indulge in those midnight snacks (I mean, pizza does taste better at 2 a.m.), but make time for exercise and try to eat things that won’t turn your body into a human sponge. Maybe join a gym or just walk around campus (you’ll see more of it than you think). 🏃♂️🏃♀️
5. Not Every Class Will Be Life-Changing 🎓
Some classes will feel like mind-blowing experiences, others will leave you questioning why you’re even there. And that’s okay. College is a mix of the amazing and the meh. But just because a class doesn’t spark joy (thanks, Marie Kondo) doesn’t mean it’s useless. There’s always something you can take away, even if it’s just learning how to handle boring stuff with a smile. 😂
6. Ask for Help When You Need It 🙋♀️
Whether it’s a professor, a TA, or even a peer, there are tons of resources available. Professors are there to help you succeed, but they can’t read your mind. So don’t be afraid to reach out if you’re struggling with a topic. College is not about “toughing it out” alone. Use all the resources—tutoring centers, study groups, or even friends who pretend to know what’s going on in class. 🤷♂️
7. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others 💔
It’s easy to look around and think everyone has their life together. Meanwhile, you’re just trying to get through the day without spilling coffee on your notes. Guess what? Everyone’s in the same boat, pretending like they’ve got it all under control. Everyone’s journey is different. Focus on your growth, and don’t stress because someone else has a better GPA or a cooler internship. You’re exactly where you need to be.
8. Financial Management is Key 💸
Just because you have a student loan doesn’t mean you can spend like a millionaire. Budgeting is your best friend. This means keeping track of your spending on those late-night takeout orders and avoiding the temptation to splurge on that cute shirt you don’t really need. Consider learning how to cook simple meals too—it’ll save you both money and time! 🧑🍳
9. College is About the Experience 🎉
Yes, getting that degree is important, but so is the college experience itself. Network, meet new people, and do something out of your comfort zone. Travel, join clubs, or attend campus events. Explore new hobbies you never thought you’d like (who knows? You might become a yoga master or start knitting in your spare time). Those are the things you’ll remember forever.
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Key Takeaways (aka Emanuel's Epic Wisdom™):
Time management will be your best friend (get on it now).
Make friends, and don’t be afraid to talk to strangers.
It’s okay to not have it all figured out.
Balance your junk food with exercise.
Some classes are boring—roll with it.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Don’t compare yourself to others (seriously, don’t).
Budget your money like a pro.
Live the experience—college is about growth!
So, buckle up for the wild ride ahead, Emanuel! It's gonna be crazy, but you’ll learn a ton and have fun along the way. And remember, it’s not about the degree—it’s about the journey! 🎢
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Erin’s Answer
I wish I would've known that the add/drop period is crucial to your success. A class may sound great on paper, but if you are not feeling it in the first one or two classes, make the change. I have two daughters that are in school and I give them this exact advice every semester. I also tell them that communication with your teachers/professors is imperative! Participate, ask questions, and engage. You do not need to be perfect, you just need to try.
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Sarah’s Answer
I wish that I had known the importance of networking. I didn't focus enough time on what I would do once I graduated. I thought it would be easy to just get a job after getting degreed. I was mistaken. I should have worked with my counselors and professors to learn interview tips and hone in on specific skills that I could bring to a job.
Network, network, network.
Network, network, network.
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Karin’s Answer
Hi Emanuel,
I wish I had known more about the importance of internships and about networking to get ahead in your career.
College really suited me. I loved it. Never again will you meet so many people from all walks of life who are all new and in search of friends.
You'll make lifelong friends at College. You'll grow together, learn together, party together and share your joys and problems.
Never again will you have so many opportunities to learn, not only for your degree but also by taking books from the library, from film or theater events and student clubs.
Don't worry about it! You'll get the hang of it!
KP
I wish I had known more about the importance of internships and about networking to get ahead in your career.
College really suited me. I loved it. Never again will you meet so many people from all walks of life who are all new and in search of friends.
You'll make lifelong friends at College. You'll grow together, learn together, party together and share your joys and problems.
Never again will you have so many opportunities to learn, not only for your degree but also by taking books from the library, from film or theater events and student clubs.
Don't worry about it! You'll get the hang of it!
KP
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Kiaura’s Answer
Firstly DONT SKIP MEALS AND STAY HYDARTED. You'd be surprised how many of my friends were surviving off of hot Cheetos going into college.
Be prepared for having real life deadlines. I feel like in high school there's a lot of leniency compared to college. You have deadlines that have to be met to stay in courses, so just making sure you compartmentalize all the important things in order of urgency. And write down all your due dates, sometimes seeing the on the computer isn't enough!
Help is ALWAYS available, no matter what you need assistance on.
Before you go to the bookstore and buy expensive books, search your local marketplace for the book. 9/10 itll be less than 10$ there!
College is where your going to help build your future but its also the place where your going to meet new friends and people you may make family, Good Luck! You got this !
Be prepared for having real life deadlines. I feel like in high school there's a lot of leniency compared to college. You have deadlines that have to be met to stay in courses, so just making sure you compartmentalize all the important things in order of urgency. And write down all your due dates, sometimes seeing the on the computer isn't enough!
Help is ALWAYS available, no matter what you need assistance on.
Before you go to the bookstore and buy expensive books, search your local marketplace for the book. 9/10 itll be less than 10$ there!
College is where your going to help build your future but its also the place where your going to meet new friends and people you may make family, Good Luck! You got this !
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Sivakumar’s Answer
Hi Emanuel,
Hope you're doing well!
Before heading to college, it's a great idea to learn about the campus. It's right in the city center and has great buildings and labs for your studies. Make sure to pick a college with a strong track record in academics.
Dress nicely to boost your confidence, and make sure to be on time for your classes.
Good luck!
Hope you're doing well!
Before heading to college, it's a great idea to learn about the campus. It's right in the city center and has great buildings and labs for your studies. Make sure to pick a college with a strong track record in academics.
Dress nicely to boost your confidence, and make sure to be on time for your classes.
Good luck!
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Elijah’s Answer
I wish I knew myself better. In high school, things were much simpler like schoolwork, homework, sports, and clubs most things were simpler. My first year in college hit me like a brick wall. I was not prepared for the workload at all and I struggled to balance school, sports, and a job. The biggest piece of advice that I can give is to check yourself before you wreck yourself. What are your strengths and weaknesses? What gives you the most trouble? What do you need help with? When you answer these questions don't be afraid to ask for help in them. Remember college is expensive so of your going to do it jump in with both feet.