Every freshman hears the same advice a trillion times, “freshman year is a big year.” Then the statement is followed with more obvious advice from parents and teachers. Go to class, join clubs, and don’t party too much. That’s advice that every freshman will hear and learn from experience. The advice I had to learn on my own is not to compare yourself, your path, or your goals to anyone else.
Your college experience is supposed to be different from everyone else’s, so embrace it. Just because all of your friends are joining certain clubs and going to certain events doesn’t mean you have to follow in their steps. College is your time to grow, so don’t be afraid to change as a person and take on new challenges.
I wish I knew freshman year that part of not comparing yourself to others is also realizing that if you’re struggling with something it is okay to ask for help. Just because others aren’t struggling with adapting to classes or college life in general, doesn’t mean you should be ashamed to ask for help. Finding a support system that works for you makes the college experience that much better.
By Emily Cook
Emily is a senior marketing major in the Walton College of Business from Harrison, Arkansas.
