The Advice I Never Got (But You Still Can)
Everyone tells you that college will be the best time of your life—but no one really prepares you for what that actually means.
I remember standing in my dorm room on day one, suitcase in one hand and fear in the other, wondering, “Am I really ready for this?” Spoiler alert: I wasn’t. Not entirely.
College in the United States is a wild mix of freedom, pressure, discovery, and debt. It’s exciting, but it can also feel like you’re navigating a maze blindfolded.
And while Instagram might show picture-perfect campus lives, the truth is far more complicated.
So here it is—the honest list I wish someone had handed me before I set foot on campus.
Whether you’re just applying, about to move in, or deep into your first semester, these lessons might save you from headaches, awkward mistakes, and wasted time.
1. College Is Way More Expensive Than It Seems
You might think tuition is your biggest cost. It’s not.
Books, housing, meal plans, transportation, club fees, laundry, coffee—it all adds up quickly. Many students are shocked by how much they spend in the first semester alone.
Tip: Make a detailed budget before classes start. Use student discounts wherever possible. And beware of campus dining plans—they’re not always worth the price.
2. Making Friends Takes Effort—And That’s Okay
College movies make it look like lifelong friendships form instantly during orientation. Reality? It can take months to feel connected.
You’ll likely feel out of place at first—and so does everyone else. You’re not weird, you’re human.
Tip: Say “yes” to more invites than you’re comfortable with at the beginning. Join at least one club or activity you’re genuinely interested in. Relationships take time, but effort makes the difference.
3. Professors Actually Want to Help (If You Ask)
This one blew my mind. Professors aren’t just grading machines—they’re resources.
Whether you’re struggling with material or want career advice, office hours exist for a reason. And no, they won’t think you’re dumb for asking.
Tip: Go to office hours early in the semester. Introduce yourself. Build a relationship. These small steps can lead to mentorship, recommendation letters, or even job opportunities.
4. You Don’t Need to Have Everything Figured Out
It feels like everyone around you knows what they’re doing: their major, future career, five-year plan. But here’s the truth: most of them are faking it.
Changing your major, switching paths, and feeling lost are all normal.
Tip: Explore classes outside your initial interest. Take electives that challenge you. Use career services early—not just during senior year.
5. Part-Time Jobs Can Make or Break Your Schedule
Working while in college can teach valuable time management skills and ease financial stress. But the wrong job at the wrong time can lead to burnout fast.
Tip: Look for campus jobs first—they often offer flexible hours and understand student needs. Limit your hours during exam weeks. And don’t be afraid to quit a job that’s hurting your academic performance.
6. Roommates Are a Gamble, But You’ll Learn from It
You could end up with your best friend or a walking disaster. Either way, sharing a small space with someone new is an intense learning experience.
Conflicts over noise, cleanliness, or even stolen snacks are more common than you’d think.
Tip: Communicate early. Set clear expectations. Use your RA (Resident Assistant) as a mediator if things get uncomfortable. And if all else fails, remember—it’s temporary.
7. You’ll Change—And That’s a Good Thing
You might enter college thinking you know who you are. But after a year, you may dress differently, think differently, even hang out with completely new types of people.
And that’s not a crisis—it’s growth.
Tip: Stay open to new ideas and experiences. Don’t resist change; reflect on it. College is supposed to reshape you. Let it.
8. Office Hours Are Your Secret Weapon
Yes, this deserves its own spot on the list because almost no one uses them, and yet they can be the key to your success.
Office hours are like free tutoring, inside tips for exams, and career coaching—all rolled into one.
Tip: Don’t just show up when you’re failing. Use office hours to deepen your understanding of the course and build rapport with your professor.
9. Student Debt Is Real—Start Budgeting Early
It’s easy to ignore loan balances when the bills aren’t due yet. But every swipe of your card or extra semester can cost you thousands in the long run.
Tip: Use a free budgeting app. Track your expenses. Apply for scholarships every semester—not just the first. And before taking out loans, understand the interest and repayment terms.
10. Your Mental Health Deserves as Much Attention as Your GPA
Between academic pressure, homesickness, and trying to “fit in,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Mental health issues like anxiety and depression are common on college campuses—but sadly, many students don’t seek help.
Tip: Know where your campus counseling center is located. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment. Prioritize sleep, eat real food, and don’t be afraid to take a break when you need it.
You’ve Got This (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It)
If you’ve read this far, you’re already ahead of where I was when I started college.
The truth is, no one is ever fully ready for college. It’s messy, thrilling, hard, and beautiful—all at once. And while you’ll make mistakes, you’ll also grow more than you thought possible.
Use this list as a compass, not a rulebook. Your journey will be different—and that’s the point.
Now go out there and make the most of it. You only get one first semester. 💪