What is the Real Freshman Fifteen?
Starting college can feel overwhelming for freshmen. In fact, “53% of first-year students reported a substantial increase in mental and emotional exhaustion” (Beginning College Survey of Student Engagement, 2021). It's easy to fall into habits that steer you off track, however this can be avoided.
Here are 15 common habits to avoid so you can thrive and achieve your goals during Freshman Year.
1. Waiting to get involved in school activities
You might want to wait and “see” how much work you have before joining any clubs or activities, but often, that moment never comes. Taking initiative early in the semester helps you find friends and minimize large blocks of open time(which can actually cause procrastination!)
2. Keeping to-do lists in your head
It’s easy to forget things without a proper system. Even though this may have worked in high school, figure out the most useful way to write or type things down where you will actually see them. There’s no one right way, just the way that you actually will use!
3. Calling/texting home when you’re feeling awkward
Whether you’re alone in the cafeteria, walking to class, or at a social event, calling or texting people from home can make you feel more comfortable in your environment. However, it hinders your ability to socialize with those around you. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable! Eventually, it won’t feel so awkward, and likely you will soon have more friends.
4. Comparing yourself to others in class
Thinking that you aren’t as smart as everyone else in your class is normal, but not helpful! Remember that there is a significant difference between the structure of work in high school vs college. Everyone adjusts at their own pace. Yes, there will be classes where other students know more or have had more preparation than you. However, you belong in that class; otherwise, you wouldn’t be there! Don’t be afraid to speak up to your professors. They are there to support you!
5. Only looking for “your people” on campus
Sticking to the types of people you hung out with in high school limits your ability to expand your social circle. Be flexible! College is about meeting new people, learning about new perspectives, and embracing diversity.
6. Talking about your roommate behind their back
If you and your roommate are having a conflict, venting about it might feel good in the moment, but it can create unnecessary drama. Direct communication is always better. Ask your RA for help if you need it.
7. Complaining about your professors
If you’re struggling in class, don’t go into blame mode. It’s easy to get into the victim mindset, especially if classmates feel the same way. Instead, go talk to your professor either after class or during office hours. Try to get to know your professor as a person. They want to see their students succeed.
8. Underestimating assignments
Assignments and readings often take more time than they may have in high school. Start breaking up assignments into small steps and assess honestly. Then plan it out so you can avoid last-minute cramming.
9. Waiting for others to invite you to events
Don’t wait for others to invite you out to events. Be proactive in making plans and putting yourself out there. If you’re interested in a campus event, go! Even if you go by yourself.
10. Wearing headphones/earbuds to class or on campus
While it’s tempting to listen to music, headphones or earbuds signal that you are not interested in talking. Take them out while walking into and out of class so you can engage with your surroundings and meet people.
11. Questioning right away whether to transfer colleges
It’s common to wonder if you made the right choice, but transferring to a different college is a big decision. Give yourself time to adjust before considering it.
12. Ignoring your grades
Hoping you’ll magically pull off a passing grade at the end of the semester isn’t a good plan. Regularly check your grades on your student portal so that you know where you stand in each of your classes. If you aren’t sure where you stand or your professor hasn’t posted grades, email them and ask!
13. Thinking “I have plenty of time” to complete assignments
This is the signal that procrastination is about to happen. Look at the assignment, decide how long it will take, schedule that time, and feel great that you have a plan!
14. Napping too much
When you need a break, napping can be helpful. But it’s easy for naps to get out of control. Set an alarm and take naps wisely. Use them for a quick burst of revival, not to make up for sleep you aren’t getting at night.
15. Making setbacks personal
Don’t let a bad grade or experience make you feel as if you are in the wrong college, class, or major, or that you are not capable. Mistakes are part of the learning process; figure out what you can learn from this experience and use them as opportunities to grow. Decide what you want to try for next time.
In conclusion, the start of college can be a stressful time for freshmen. Yet, if you can curb these Freshman Fifteen habits early on, you’ll quickly build solid routines, a network of friends, a schedule of fun activities, and solid academic performance.
How to Prevent These Freshman Fifteen Habits from Taking Over:
Watch my “Hit the Ground Running” video. Learn how to prevent these 15 habits from even starting in the first place!
Consider scheduling a limited-time College Schedule Building Session with me: Build your college schedule around your classes, discuss your system for scheduling academic and non-academic time, decide semester goals, and anticipate potential roadblocks in a 75-minute Zoom call. Email me at laura@ruddercoaching.com to schedule a College Schedule Building Session before heading to campus. ($225/75 min session)
I would love to hear if any of these habits resonated with you or your college student. Comment your experiences below!
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