Jan. 10, 2018
Carson Yenchar is a freshman who is majoring in English and minoring in environmental and sustainability studies. She originally published this blog Dec. 8, 2017 as part of the Residential Initiative on the Study of the Environment Sustainable Stories blog site.
My first semester of college is coming to an end, and let me just say, it was pretty insane! Homework, studying, getting to class on time, even eating at the right time! I didn’t think I’d make it this far, to be honest, but I’m thankfully still in one piece. I have already learned so much from just this one semester of school, and I think it is important that we all remember these things too.
1. Procrastination is NOT HELPFUL
So, I remember always staying on top of my homework in high school, and I thought college would be a little more laid back with the homework. Boy, was I wrong. I’ve had so much homework to do this semester, especially big projects. I feel like I’ve procrastinated more in college than in high school, and let me tell you, that’s not a good idea! It only adds more stress on you and then you freak out because you think you’re going to fail the class from one missed assignment. So, folks, let’s not procrastinate. Get your work done on time, or even ahead of time, and the stress will slowly fade away.
2. Join clubs
Michigan State University is a huge school. There are going to be a lot of people you don’t know. So, it’s a good idea to join clubs, because then those group of people become like your second family. I am currently in the Wharton Center Student Marketing Organization and the RISE Blog. I did start out in ballroom dancing, but then I learned that while it’s a great idea to join clubs, you don’t want to overdo it. Pace yourself, and find those few clubs that fit you the most.
3. It’s never wrong to ask for help
There are people who are willing to help you if you ever need it. Stress is inevitable, so it’s important to have your own little support group to help you along the way. Whether it’s your roommate, or your friends, or any adult figures you confide in, they are all there to help you through. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for help. I wish I would have done that more, as it may have helped when things got too stressful. So, remember, you are only doing yourself and the person helping you a favor by asking for assistance. You’re not alone.
4. You will be 'alright'
This kind of goes along with asking for help, but even when you feel as if the whole world is tumbling down around you, it’s not. I promise you college is a great experience, but only if you make it so. You will be all right. You will make it, and you will graduate. Because what you’re doing in your life right now — that’s what matters. Never let someone tell you that you can’t do something because you can. College is just your one-way ticket into life, and then, you’ll realize that everything will be okay as long as you keep telling yourself it will be.
Well, there you go! That’s what I learned. I’m glad that I was able to get through this first semester, and I know things can only go uphill from here. I wish all my fellow peeps luck in their endeavors! Stay responsible, nerds, and see you around!