4 Reasons That My Freshman Year Was Hard

My freshman year was my most difficult year in college for several reasons. The primary reasons were due to my ignorance. Though today I cannot say much more about what I plan to do with my future, in 2005 I was even more confused. To exacerbate matters, I actually thought that I DID know what I was going to do. This led me to take on too many obligations some weeks, and to completely overlook opportunities other weeks.

It is my hope that I can elucidate how freshman year may be hard for those not yet in college, and perhaps allow those who have already gone through it to reminisce somewhat.

1. I thought that I had it all figured out.

At 18, I knew I was going to become a music teacher. I had the scholarships, the instrument, the works. Unfortunately, I did not realize that my true preferences were being clouded by opportunity. I took too many classes, made far too many friends, and ended up staggering into December never wanting to listen to music again. Listen to your heart, as well as your elders, as this will help you make more realistic decisions.’

2. I had difficulty with prioritization.

All I cared about was girls and freedom. I never studied or practiced enough because I was too busy skirt-chasing or simply goofing off.

3. I did not appreciate either my potential or my limits.

My first semester I took almost a dozen classes in a difficult major that I thought I would enjoy, but ultimately ended up hating. My second semester I took around five elective classes and had every Friday off. Freshmen have to be honest with themselves, but still keep things challenging.

4. I dug myself into a hole socially, professionally, and academically.

I know that most people would consider a 3.4 to be respectable, but I had planned to do better. I did not cultivate friendships or get to know my professors. I depended far too much on my friends from high school, and incorrectly assumed that my high school habits with my teachers would work with college professors. I would love to have the chance to go back and do things differently.

I recommend finding some outside source which will keep you on track during your freshman year. Valdosta State University has a Freshman Year Experience already in place which helps new students accomplish everything that I wish that I would have done. Your school may not have a program like this, but your counseling center will be able to point you toward the best course of action for your situation.

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