Freshman year is for navigating the unknown waters in your life. You are in charge of your own boat, steering in the direction of great desires. Keep reading for tips on how to cultivate a great route.
1 – Compasses can direct you but are only helpful if you use them.
At IWU, you are given a map pointing to several helpful programs, facilities and people.
No one is stopping you from asking your professor questions, getting your resume cleaned up at the Hart Career Center or decompressing during a therapy session at Counseling & Consultation Services.
But no one will take the wheel for you. You have to manage your own appointments and Google Calendar.
2 – Friend circles change faster than the tide. Social media makes it seem like you are missing out on the lifelong friends college promised.
I’d give it about a month before that tight-knit group posting Snapchat stories crumbles. Look at psychology: Mel Robbin’s “Let Them Theory” says friendship is dependent on three things: time (you have to spend 200 hours with someone to become close friends,) location (proximity matters for ease of interaction) and energy (people must have the will to bond.)
If one of the three pillars for connection isn’t being met, your boats are headed to different hemispheres. You might have to radio other ships until you meet your co-captain.
3 – Keep your ship tidy and develop good habits.
You can either clean up the bird poop on the dock or let it soak into the floorboards. Build healthy habits now in studying, sleeping and socializing. Your parents or guardians are not here to tie the sails.
4 – Eat off ship. Life is an adventure, and sometimes you get seasick eating the same fish.
Food is a key part of socializing. Go on a walk or take the bus to Downtown Bloomington to enjoy new foods. Mini adventures are a great way to explore the ocean.
5 – Join a crew. You will meet tons of amazing people and may end up inviting them on your ship through similar clubs.
6 – Captains take naps too. Steering a ship is exhausting and you want your eyes open for important storms.
7 – Look for loot. Get a part-time job. As captain of your own ship, you manage the finances. Start your own side hustle using nearby resources. A few ideas include: Student Made, writing for the Argus, working for IWU athletics, admissions, dining services and more.
8 – Introduce yourself to become mates. Tell the crew your name. You want to be the person that is heard, not just seen.
9 – Pick a good crew. People are your greatest assets.
Who you associate yourself with will impact your behavior.
Your professors may write future letters of recommendation. Talk to people, and they just might help you steer.
10 – All those in favor, say aye. “Yes Day” is a fun Jennifer Garner movie and a promising reality.
Saying yes your first couple of months helps you experience all possible routes, weather, and views.
You might litigate in court, race a go-kart or paint sneakers with a graphic design major if you say yes.
College is four precious years of your life; for some, only three.
It is a period of ultimate transition, and it reshapes your character. As you are championing your ship, make sure you steer the best route.
