Reflection on My Freshman Year of College: Lessons Learned
Time travel may be a figment of science fiction, but looking back on my freshman year of college allows me to dream about a better past. If I could go back and change one thing about that time, what would it be?
Procrastination
One of the biggest regrets from my college freshman year is not organizing my work and assignments better. I learned the hard way that leaving everything until the last minute only leads to stress and subpar results. By breaking down my work into smaller, manageable tasks, I could have achieved better grades and enjoyed a more stress-free college experience.
Writer's Block
In my first attempt at an essay, I realized that I needed more preparation than just allocating some time. The challenge of selecting an appropriate topic from the provided photographs (a tradition that has since been discontinued) forced me to stare at a blank page for far too long. If I had the chance to redo it, I would definitely spend the entire allotted time crafting my response, rather than rushing through the first half of the exam.
Focus and Priorities
My freshman year was a roller coaster ride marked by emotional and academic ups and downs. Initially, I struggled with socializing and partying, leading to a low GPA of 0.80. Fortunately, I made a turn around, earning a spot on the Dean's List in the second quarter. While my first year was in a quarters system, the second year switched to semesters. This experience highlighted the importance of balancing social life and academic responsibilities.
Major Selection
Selecting a major is a critical decision, and I wish I had chosen something more aligned with my interests and strengths. Political science felt like a missed opportunity, as I realized later that it was not as effective as creative writing, theater, or any engineering field. Choosing a major that would lead to a fulfilling career, even if it isn't necessarily financially lucrative, could have made my college journey more meaningful.
Workload
My second regret is my heavy workload. I opted for an overwhelming 18 credits, which was far more than the typical 12. Had I managed my schedule more judiciously, I likely would have avoided burnout and maintained a better work-life balance. Building a steady academic record and a strong resume would have been more beneficial in the long run.
Free Time
If I had the chance to go back, I also wish I had prioritized building a job and a resume. While I was focused on social life, I neglected opportunities that could have contributed to my long-term career goals. Investing time in gaining job experience and developing transferable skills could have provided a strong foundation for my future.
Study Habits
Academic rigor was a stark contrast to the comfort of high school. For the first time, I encountered challenges that required dedicated study time. Failing classes for the first time in my academic journey taught me the importance of study skills and time management. A more proactive approach to studying from the beginning could have made all the difference in my overall college experience.
The People I Am Around
My social circle also played a significant role in my emotional state during my freshman year. While I enjoyed hanging out with intellectual females, I often felt out of place and more attracted to male friends. If I could go back, I would aim to foster closer bonds with my male friends and give myself time to develop romantic relationships without the pressure of immediate success.
Looking back, I understand that college is a period of personal growth and discovery. Each regret serves as a reminder of the importance of planning, prioritizing, and choosing paths that align with one's goals and interests. If I could change anything about my freshman year, it would be to make smarter decisions about my academics, workload, social life, and personal development.