3 Things I Wish I Would've Known Before College
Welcoming all incoming college freshman. First off, I’m sorry that you were unable to finish your year like you thought. I’m sorry you didn’t get to soak in the last moments you were looking forward to. But, I am also super excited for your next steps. I know college is not for everyone, but If you’ve resulted to clicking the link I’m going to assume that’s the route you’ve decided. To get to the point…
Here are THREE things I wish I would’ve known before college:
RELINQUISH CONTROL
I searched and searched for a school. I applied to 8 schools because I had no clue. I also had no idea what I wanted to study. I was praying about my decision, but I was praying selfishly that God would just TELL ME. I stopped being consistent and faithful in my current life (high school, relationships) and I was only searching and praying for that one big thing.. COLLEGE. God taught me through this college search, that he knew and has always known where he wanted me. Instead of praying about his will and continuing to be fruitful and faithful where my feet were, I was distracted and only worried about my own direction. How do we expect God to take over our lives when our grip is so tight?! “Seek first the Kingdom (NOT the unknown, college, etc... ) and all of these things will be added unto you” Matthew 6:33
2. FIND BALANCE
I can not preach this enough. You must find balance early in the year between your homework, social life, physical activity, mental health, work and MORE. First and foremost it was important for me to schedule and work ahead. I prioritized getting 6-7 hours of sleep, so I usually made sure to be in bed in order to have complete focus. I work better in the morning, so getting up earlier to go to the gym or finish homework was SO HELPFUL. Although school is what you’re there for, don’t forget to build relationships and allow time for them. Reward yourself with a time to put the books down and enjoy friends. Creating routines and habits in your life will set you up for future success.
“Don’t prioritize your schedule, schedule your priorities” - Stephen Covey
3. TRANSITIONS
Leaving home may not always be easy, but you will grow from it. You may decide you like being away, great! You may decide you like being home, great! Either way you learn. Pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone usually causes a little nervousness - it’s normal! Moreover, the awkwardness doesn’t last forever. Sometimes we have to leave what is convenient to make room for what is necessary.