First and foremost, I want to express how much I love you. This is the most crucial point I want to get across as you embark on this thrilling new chapter of your life. While I don’t have all the answers to life’s questions, I do believe I hold some valuable insights that might help you.
You may see me as ancient, but I assure you that I still feel young at heart. It seems like just yesterday that I was in your shoes. Feel free to roll your eyes, as I would have done at your age, convinced I had it all figured out. But hindsight has taught me that I was often mistaken. Embrace your youthful naivety; it’s a natural part of your journey. If you recognize it, you’re already ahead of the curve. If you disagree, well, that just proves my point.
Top Ten Pieces of Advice
- Embrace Mistakes: You will stumble, and that’s perfectly fine! Each mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to make them; just aim to learn from them. Avoid being purposefully foolish—no one appreciates that.
- Be Authentic: Stay true to yourself. When you feel scared, face those fears instead of running away. But if a charming stranger at a party claims you’re his soulmate after one look, it’s definitely time to bail. Focus on discovering who you are, and remember that it’s a journey that takes time.
- Stay Engaged: The first few months of college are critical for building lasting friendships. Resist the urge to retreat home, even if you miss everyone. These weeks will shape your college experience, and stepping out of your comfort zone will lead to great things. Consider leaving your car behind for a bit; trust me, it’s worth it!
- Prioritize Studies: College is serious business. I neglected academics more than I’d like to admit, which made my path to grad school challenging. Always strive to do your best, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Remember, it’s okay to stumble sometimes; you won’t excel at everything.
- Keep an Open Mind: Don’t box yourself in with labels. If you think you know what your future holds, chances are you don’t. Explore various options and absorb everything around you. You have plenty of time to choose a specific career path later! Who knows? You might even discover a passion for something unexpected, like becoming a sommelier.
- Have Fun: This is your chance to live out a unique college experience. Make it memorable! Take advantage of the freedom and opportunities that come your way.
- Be Responsible: Make wise choices and trust your instincts. Avoid reckless behaviors, and remember that using common sense is key to navigating college life.
- Avoid Toxic People: Steer clear of those who drain your energy, no matter how attractive they may seem. You are remarkable and deserving of genuine connections. Don’t let anyone fool you with charm alone.
- Cultivate Female Friendships: Building solid bonds with girlfriends is essential for your happiness. These relationships can profoundly enrich your college experience, so nurture them.
- Stay Connected with Family: Call your mom often. She misses you already, and maintaining that connection is important. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to me. I’ll remind you to stay strong and keep pushing through.
In closing, always remember to pair yoga pants with a long, flowy top—you’ll thank me later!
With all my love,
Auntie Sarah