Things I Wish I Knew Before College | 30 Untapped Advice in 2023

College is the hallowed hall of higher education, where knowledge is acquired, friendships are forged, and instant noodles become a diet staple. As a wide-eyed freshman embarking on this exhilarating journey, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the excitement and the unknown.

However, with armed knowledge, we’ll dive into the untapped advice of things I wish I knew before college. Brace yourself for a unique perspective.

30 Untapped Advice in 2023

#1. Focus on Self-Confidence 

Achievements build confidence, so put in a lot of effort, do well in school, get involved in your interests, and learn how to do them well.

Building confidence takes a lot of work, but it’s much harder to go through life with low self-esteem, where you constantly doubt yourself and don’t think you’re worthy of good relationships and opportunities.

Getting to know yourself is so much easier when you have confidence. You can be more decisive and thoughtful, allowing you to make decisions about activities and people based on more information.

#2. Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help

Professors are not mind readers, so they won’t know you’re having trouble if you don’t speak up. Ask for help; It demonstrates strength rather than weakness.

#3. Embrace Failure

College isn’t just about acing every exam; it’s about learning from your mistakes and growing. Failure is not the end but rather a stepping stone to success. You’d be surprised how much these things I wish I knew before college would save you.

#4. Classes Won’t Impress You

You didn’t think your classes would be better than high school, did you? I’m sorry. The majority of your classes won’t be as impressive as you thought they would be.

That may change depending on your major and interests but don’t expect every class to be exciting or engaging.

When you first start college, you want to do your best and be your best. Take that drive and go for it! You won’t be saved as easily by being innovative as you were in high school.

#5. Get involved in Extracurricular Activities and Network like a Boss

College is about more than just hitting the books. Attend events, join clubs, connect with people from various backgrounds, and create lasting memories. You never know who might become your future mentor, business partner, or lifelong friend.

#6. Take Care of your Mental Health

College can be a whirlwind of stress and anxiety. Prioritize self-care, seek counseling if necessary, and remember that mental well-being is as important as your GPA.

#7. Time Management is Key

Procrastination may be tempting, but it’s a slippery slope. Manage your time effectively to avoid last-minute cram sessions and sleepless nights.

#8. Learn to Cook

Despite the delicious ramen noodles, maintaining focus and energy requires a well-balanced diet. You can save money and impress your friends by mastering simple recipes.

#9. Embrace Diversity

College is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. Step outside your comfort zone, engage in conversations and celebrate the richness of diversity around you.

#10. Learn Financial Literacy

College is the perfect time to understand the basics of budgeting, saving, and managing debt. Take advantage of workshops or online resources to become financially savvy.

#11. Use Campus Resources

Libraries, writing centers, career services, tutoring programs, and various other resources are available at colleges. Make use of these resources to improve both your academic performance and your personal growth.

#12. Take Advantage of Internships

While you are still in school, apply for an internship or a job in a field you are interested in. Start working as soon as possible to gain as much experience as possible. If you can get work experience before you graduate, you will have a much better chance of landing a job when you graduate.

#13. Make Connections with Your Professors!

This is one of those occasions when going above and beyond as a student matters. Not only can your instructors and other support staff alert you to opportunities, but they can also provide character references, especially when you have a short resume with a few former bosses to contact.

#14. Let Go of Toxic People

In college, it’s easy to get caught up in the social scene and place too much value on being in specific groups and clubs. It’s also simple to justify spending time with people who treat you and others poorly because they belong to a certain social circle.

When people are mean to you, gossip about you when you’re not looking, etc. They are harmful. Do your best to surround yourself with positive people who care about you and want the best for you. Find friends who support you through life’s ups and downs and plateaus, and share your interests and goals.

Despite what is “cool,” the sooner you gain the confidence to choose your friends and follow your path, the happier you will be.

#15. Rent Your Textbooks

The extra time required to maintain your books in good condition is well worth the money you can save by renting them. According to the College Board, the annual cost of school supplies and textbooks is approximately $1,200.

However, it would be best not to rent your books for the first two days of class. Get a feel for your types, as professors may occasionally assign readings from books that aren’t on the syllabus.

Return the book on time if you must use it from the library. At all costs, avoid any additional fees.

#16. Avoid Procrastination

Start assignments and projects early. Do a little bit each day to avoid facing an impossible task on the due date. Avoid having to pound out a paper in a few hours.

#17. Cultivate a Growth Mindset

Another advice on the list of things I wish I knew before college is believing in your ability to learn and grow. Embrace challenges, seek feedback, and view setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than signs of incompetence.

#18. Work on Your Future Before It Starts

This will give you a head start if you are fortunate enough to know your passion or discover it in college. Do you excel in any area? In other words, good enough to warrant a price?

If you answered “yes,” give up everything you’re doing and find a way to profit from your knowledge.

#19. Avoid Excess Drugs, Alcohol, and Caffeine

Although college is about trying new things, and these things happen to be there, it will be in your best interest to avoid them all.

It will become routine if you continue to use these things excessively, particularly when starting college. You shouldn’t have a routine like this. Your life will be ruined by it.

You’ll become lazy, less motivated, and more exhausted, and in the end, you’ll have to rely on those things to get out of bed or make you happy.

#20. It’s Okay to Say No

College presents many opportunities, but you don’t have to do everything. Learn to prioritize and set boundaries. Focus on what truly matters, and don’t spread yourself too thin.

#21. Build a Strong Support System

Surround yourself with positive, like-minded individuals who uplift and inspire you. Find like-minds through clubs, organizations, or shared interests. Having a support system will help you navigate the ups and downs of college life.

#22. Develop good study habits early on

Since coursework in college can be difficult, it’s essential to develop good study habits immediately.

You can study in a quiet corner of the library or a busy café, whatever works best for you. Test various study methods to discover the one best suits your learning style.

#23. Take Advantage of Technology and Productivity Tools

You can stay productive and organized with the help of a plethora of digital tools, apps, and software.

To simplify your personal and academic lives, look into apps for taking notes, managing tasks, and tracking time. Make use of technology to boost your effectiveness and efficiency.

#24. Travel and study abroad if you can

Studying abroad transforms you and introduces you to new perspectives, languages, and cultures. It enhances personal development and broadens your view of the world. Do not hesitate to seize the opportunity and embark on a global adventure.

#25. Keep an open mind

On the list of things I wish I knew before college is keeping an open mind. College is a time of exploration and discovery. Be open to new ideas, diverse perspectives, and challenging conversations. Embrace intellectual curiosity and engage in thoughtful discussions. It’s through open-mindedness that we expand our knowledge and foster personal growth.

#26. Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care

College life can be hectic, but it’s important to prioritize self-care. Take breaks, engage in activities you enjoy, and practice mindfulness. Give yourself permission to relax and recharge. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

#27. Develop Strong Communication Skills

Effective communication is a vital skill that will benefit you in all areas of life. Take courses or workshops focusing on public speaking, writing, and interpersonal communication. Practice active listening and learn how to express your thoughts and ideas clearly and respectfully.

#28. Have Fun, but Take College Seriously

College is costly. Don’t take your classes lightly when your future and money are at stake. Have plans for a night out? Ensure that you have completed all of your assignments. Do you wish to skip a class? Occasionally prepare for it, but do not make it a routine.

Enjoy your time at college, but remember why you’re there. Your services for student loans won’t.

#29. You can Reinvent Yourself

No one knows if you were the most popular cheerleader in the history of popular cheerleaders or if you were an introvert in high school. This is the place to go if you want to forget about the past and start over.

You have the perfect opportunity to discover who you are and what you like and dislike in college. You probably won’t change completely; you’ll become more evolved. However, be careful, and ensure that you are achieving a balance between your desire to start over and remaining true to yourself.

#30. Enjoy the Journey

College is a one-of-a-kind and life-changing experience. It is a period of development, self-discovery, and lasting memories. Enjoy every moment and accept the challenges, victories, and ups and downs.

Take time to appreciate the friendships, late-night study sessions, campus events, and overall college atmosphere. Make the most of this time in your life and enjoy the ride because it will shape you in ways you can’t even imagine.

FAQs – Things I Wish I Knew Before College

Conclusion

College is an exciting chapter filled with opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and personal development. By embracing these untapped advice, you can confidently navigate this transformative period and make the most of your college years.

References

• Forbes.com
• Cosmopolitan.com
• Modernteen.co

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