An Open Letter to Freshmen

This is it. You have just finished your senior year of high school, college is around the corner, and you’re wondering, how is it possible that I’m here already? Wasn’t it just yesterday I was finger painting in kindergarten? How am I about to leave my friends and family?

Don’t worry: you’re not alone in these feelings. Millions of students before you have graduated, went to college, and survived, and millions will after you.

Enjoy the time in which you find yourself, but don’t forget to:

• Prepare yourself spiritually: college is a busy time; friends to make, grades to achieve, games to win, activities to accomplish, but don’t neglect your relationship with God. Chapel is a wonderful supplement to your spiritual walk, but it cannot sustain you. Make sure to set aside time to be still and know he is God.
• Prepare yourself mentally: college won’t be easy, but if you prepare correctly, it could be the best four years of your life. When you get your class schedule, set up a weekly calendar and plan in your classes, activities, meals, work, homework, down time, etc. Properly budgeting your time will help prevent burnout and allow alternately for effective studying and resting times. I know it can be easy to do, but don’t procrastinate!
• Prepare yourself emotionally: you’ll experience a lot of change as you leave home and transition to living on a college campus. You’ll probably have some anxiety about making new friends, but don’t let fear rob you the amazing friendships you’ll make, and trust me when I say you will make lifelong friends in college. If you’re worried about your living with a roommate, check out this article!
• Prepare yourself physically: be active! Go swimming, walk or jog, take hikes; if you plan on playing a sport in college, keep up with it so you’ll be ready for fall training. And be aware of the ‘freshman 15’–it’s a real thing!
• Prepare yourself financially: sure, you’ll want to spend money on fun activities or shopping sprees this summer, but if you haven’t already, start setting aside spending money for when your friend group decides they want half-priced apps at Applebee’s or for a day trip to Philly.

Change is good: it’s a sign of growth and new beginnings. You’re going to learn skills to advance you in the career field of your choice, make lasting memories, and have experiences of a lifetime. Enjoy it. And don’t forget to breathe! Everything will be fine.