1. Your first weekend home will not be what you expect.
I moved into my dorm on August 10th, and I did not return home until the 25th. I was ecstatic to see my family, boyfriend, and cats, but I was shocked when the day finally came. To be more specific, I was packing a bag to go home. It was like I was having a sleepover at the house I had lived in my entire life. Not only that, but I would wake up in a panic in the middle of the night. I had already grown unfamiliar with those coral-colored walls and blue bedding, and it deeply saddened me. My heart is in two places, and I am okay with that.
2. Learn to balance fun and school work.
Learning to balance school work and social life is necessary. I must remind myself to close my laptop, put my pencil down, and have fun. On the other hand, some college students have to set aside time to be productive. Either way, there has to be equal opportunity for success.
3. You will find your lifelong friends.
Coming from a small town, I had limited options for friends. I struggled to form connections in high school and hoped that college would be different. Fortunately, I was right. My roommate and I met through mutual contacts, but we had only been around each other twice before moving in. Shortly after, I realized I had discovered true friendship. Likewise, we met the girl across the hall from us. Our duo became an inseparable trio. They will be my bridesmaids, future children’s aunts, and best friends forever.
4. Everyone is in the same boat.
You may feel as if you are alone in your homesickness or uncertainty. I promise you that you are not. Everyone is navigating more challenging classes, different people, and a new environment. Find community with each other, and know that it will get easier. After all, your life is about to begin.