10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting College

Starting college is a wild ride—equal parts exciting and terrifying. Whether you’re a freshman trying to figure out how to adult or a senior counting the days till graduation, there’s always something new to learn outside the classroom. Looking back, here are 10 things I really wish someone had told me before stepping onto campus.

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You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out
Everyone’s pretending they know what they’re doing. Spoiler alert: they don’t. It’s completely normal to change your major, be unsure about your future, or even question if you're on the right path.
Office Hours Are Your Secret Weapon
Professors actually want you to come to office hours. Not just when you're failing—showing up builds relationships, helps with letters of recommendation, and can be a game-changer when you’re stuck.
Sleep Is Not Optional
The all-nighter culture is real, but trust me, it’s overrated. Sleep affects everything—your memory, your mood, your GPA. Get your 7–8 hours, especially before exams.
You Don’t Need to Join Everything
Clubs, sports, societies—it’s overwhelming. Find 1–2 things that genuinely interest you and go all in. Quality over quantity.
Learning to Cook One Basic Meal Will Save Your Life
Even if it’s just pasta, rice bowls, or a solid omelet, you’ll thank yourself when you're broke or tired of dining hall pizza. Bonus: cooking impresses people
Your Mental Health Matters More Than Your GPA
Stress, anxiety, and burnout are common. Use campus counseling services. Talk to someone. Your worth isn’t tied to your academic performance.
Make Friends Outside Your Major
It’s easy to get stuck in your academic bubble. But diverse friendships = new perspectives, different skills, and potential opportunities you didn’t even know existed.
Internships Aren’t Just for Juniors
Start early, even if it’s unpaid or a few hours a week. Experience builds confidence—and your resume.
Don’t Ignore Money Stuff
Learn basic budgeting. Track your spending. Understand your loans. Future You will seriously appreciate it.
These Years Go Faster Than You Think
Take pictures. Go to that random event. Say yes to things that scare you a little. College is more than classes—it’s the people, the stories, and the growth.