College…One of my favorite topics actually. I am now in my third year at Ohio University and could not love it more. It has turned into my second home and I am incredibly appreciative for all the experiences that I’ve had here. I will never forget when I started, my parents would bring me college care packages, which I thought was really nice of them. We all know how lazy some of us students can be, so this did help a lot, especially when it came to saving money on food.
I consider college as a sort of limbo between childhood and the real world…you get the best of both worlds! (Insert Hannah Montana song). HOWEVER, I am very aware that college is not for everyone or more specifically that moving away for college is not for everyone. BUT I do feel that moving away from home has an abundant amount of benefits, which is why I believe everyone should as least consider moving away for college.
- Meet new and exciting people
Whether it is from my classes, my jobs, or my sorority, I have met so many people with amazing and crazy stories. I’ve been exposed to a diverse group of students that I could have never met at home.
2) Join organizations that pertain to your major/interests
Ohio University, as well as most other colleges, offer a numerous amount of student organizations. You can join a group to volunteer at a dog shelter or join an organization that helps you progress in your major. The possibilities are endless!
3) Step outside your comfort zone
I’ve learned college offers new challenges everyday. Not only that, but it reveals a new definition of stress. You may be in a class that is not your cup of tea, have to speak in front of class, or maybe just have a million things to do. Although none of this sounds ideal, you will realize that you can get through the rough days and you’ll grow a new sense of independence. This also means you might have to start cleaning your room or student house for the first time in your life! Arm yourself with the proper tools when you head off to college like a Bissell vacuum cleaner – https://www.bissell.com/vacuums/handheld-vacuums.
4,) Higher Your Education
By saying this I don’t just mean that you’ll be taking classes towards your major. I mean that you will be able to take classes you enjoy and can get something out of. Most professors want you to learn, and I have had many professors go out of their way to help me succeed. You’ll also have the ability to take interesting classes that don’t pertain to your major, but are fun. I took an animal diversity class and have a whole new view on insects!
5) You have a huge amount of resources
The thing about resources on campus is that you have to take advantage of them. At Ohio University, there is a Career and Leadership Development Center where I’ve received two certificates. Not only does it look great on a resume, but it was just another way for me to connect and meet more people. Besides that, there are many places to go for help with advising, financial aid, networking, volunteering and more.
6) Networking
Unless you dream of being a broke college student living in your parent’s basement, this is something every college student should experience! Being away at school gives you the opportunity to talk to professors, advisors, etc. that will guide you in the right direction. I have also had coworkers or friends who have a relative in the field I would like to work in. There is an array of people to connect with on campus. You never know who knows whom!
