A brand new year brings new challenges and first year students. As I reflect on my freshman year and all of the amazing opportunities, I can’t help to remember the lessons that I have learned. For my own sanity and advice to first-year students, this is my letter to you.

Dear Freshman Me,

RELAX AND DON’T WORRY

Congratulations you are officially a college student! Before you start freaking about what classes to take/drop or friends to make, please breathe, relax and take in the beautiful Miami scenery. Don’t worry about who will accept you or find you hilarious. Friends will come when you don’t even try and remember you will always have your besties from back home. Also remember your parents want the best for you so don’t worry if you did bad on an assignment there will be more to come.

PLAN

Freshman me, please use your planner like your life depends on it. You won’t remember everything and you don’t want to forget that you have a huge oral presentation due Friday. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Your friends and professors are great resources and they only want the best for you. A prepared first year student is a successful first year student.

KNOW YOUR LIMIT

I know you want to join every club and go to every football game but know your limits. Once you feel like you HAVE to attend a club meeting, maybe it’s time to stop going. Freshman me, don’t forget that ‘No’ is a great word to learn! Sometimes we can’t be everywhere at once and having your own time is so important.

MAKE EVERYDAY WORTHWHILE

Don’t waste a single day! Whether it’s going to the beach or having a productive day at the library, don’t waste the whole day sitting in your dorm. The world is so vast and there’s always something to do.

YOU GOT THIS!

You made it to college that the first step! Now that you’re here and opportunities are at your fingertips don’t forget that you worked hard in the past and you can do it again! Don’t forget to reconnect with family and old friends while still making new connections.

Just remember that the world is your oyster and you will be just fine.

Sincerely,

Abigail

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