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ISSUE #13 - JULY 2009
nonfiction

college

(photo by Fred Kuipers)

Things I Wish I Had Known

A quick, yet very important, guide to college, written by someone who has lived through it.


• Make your room special, cozy, and a place to call your own
• Find time for yourself, even if it means saying no to a party
• Avoid the punch and sugar shots; your head the next morning will appreciate the good judgment
• Mind mom's crazy advice on health; the "freshman 15" is not a myth
• If you somehow acquire a fake ID use it wisely, you are not invincible
• All-nighters do exist, but they will make you stronger, smarter, and eventually more efficient with time management
• It is fine to not show up to class every now and then, but always make sure you can get the class notes you missed
• Take notes and pay attention to your professor; you will never appreciate your deliberation more come test day
• Document your experiences despite how much the boys despise the amount of times you make them smile for the camera
• Make it home, to your own home, after a big night out; walk of shames are truly shameful
• If you stay out late, become best friends with water and Advil
• Everyone has a story and a unique personality; find time to meet as many people as possible
• Dance in your underwear and sing in the shower to stupid songs you love
• Sleep is absolutely necessary
• Always keep a picture of your family where you can see it
• Reading the news and books for fun is no something to be ashamed of
• Explore your surroundings and try new things
• When it feels like life cannot get worse, ask yourself what mom or dad would do
• Always call your family; let them know you love them even if you know they already know
• Finding class interesting is a great thing
• Follow your passions and discover what make you excited about learning
• Don't chase boys; let them chase you
• Always carry a nail file, pen, and rubber band in your purse
• Know at least two friends' phone number; don't just have it stored in your phone
• It is absolutely fine to feel fabulous and let people know
• Have one of Meme's paintings in your room; it will put a smile on your face
• Know how to properly wash your clothes
• Find satisfaction with cooking at home for one
• Save important documents on a zip; you never know when your computer will crash
• Office hours are not convenient but well worth the visit
• Take random classes
• Have a goal for today, for tomorrow, and for days to come
• If you need to cry you can call me anytime
• Don't drunk dial or drunk text
• Start a savings account...and actually put money into it
• Don't take drugs; it really is not worth the trouble you might get in to
• Believe in yourself, but don't be afraid to ask for help
• Don't expect an end of semester grade curve
• Get involved on campus
• Act like _____ and _____ and do something crazy one and a while
• Totally enjoy yourself!

 

Liz Bell can be contacted at elizabeth.marie.bell [at] gmail.com.

 

 

 
 


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