Blogs

Between the college application process and the day you move into your dorm, people will tell you a lot of things about what college is really like. Every school is different and is experienced differently by each individual. However, there are a few things I wish I would have known before I started college.

College should be a time for exploration. Many students feel like they need to know exactly what they will major in, what activities they will participate in and what kind of people they will be friends with. You will (and should) grow and develop in college, as your interests will grow and change.

I wish someone would have told me that the same, old high school “clique system” that we are all used to does not apply to college life.

I walked into my new room expecting to become instant best friends with my roommate because it seemed like the perfect setup: You have a live-in, new friend who was paired with you based on “compatibility." You have someone who you can coordinate walks to class with, go to dinner with and sit next to at weekend sporting events. I tried to befriend my new roommate and everywhere one of us went, the other would follow.

Before I started college, I really wish I would’ve understood the importance of dropping a class you’re struggling with as opposed to taking a bad grade. Also adding to that, the importance of taking a tough class during the summer so it’s the only class you are focusing on.

I struggled with math. So while I was making A’s and B’s in my other classes, having lower math grades kept my GPA down and it took me a while to bring it back up.

This week, the bloggers at University Chic will be sharing the lessons they've learned as college students and what they wish they would have known as freshmen on campus.

It's hard enough navigating college as a freshman. Not only are you avoiding the dreaded Freshman 15, but you're also finding your way around campus. If you've got a food allergy, this could make life a little more difficult. Here's how to deal.