How to Not Be THAT Freshman

My uncle sent me this email yesterday, at the start of my freshman year, to prepare me to fit into the university. He found this article on: http://www.hercampus.com/high-school/preparing-college/how-not-be-freshman

First off, the sooner you realize you're social standing as a college freshman, the better. It's the way of life. You start off at the bottom, with the least perks, and the least recognition. You once again must earn your stripes and prove to your peers that you have a presence worth acknowledging.

First
NO LANYARDS

Lanyards aren't colligate cute! They never have been. They never will be. Those things (no matter wear you bought them) scream freshman. Even worse, do NOT wear a lanyard around your neck. You will be labeled and judged. But really. Instead, if you are concerned about keeping your ID car and keys safe, I suggest buying either a Lilly wristlet, a Vera ID holder, or a fabric key fob.

Second

SPORT THAT COLLEGE GEAR

You are a UNIVERSITY student. Not a high school student anymore. That means ditch the "Class of Blah Blah Blah" and upgrade to your school colors, mottos, and spirit wear. Nothing screams freshman like reliving the glory days on a 75% cotton & 25% polyester shirt. Just saying.

Third

NO MAPS

Use a mobile app if you lose your way. A big ole fold-up campus map is awkward and looks out of place. Self sufficient people use the mobile app, while those a little less tech savvy, don't be ashamed to ask an upperclassman where something is. Really. It's not a big deal.

Fourth 

THE EARLY BIRD DOESN'T GET THE WORM

Come to class ON TIME. Not early. You won't get extra credit for being the first one there, and you'll look sufficiently awkward when you're there 20 minutes early. Come to class. Act cool. Don't make yourself crazy with trying to get there exact at whatever time class is. Be respectful of the professor. Show up and act interested. 

Fifth 

MODESTY IS THE BEST POLICY

Yes. Congratualtions. You made it to college. But you aren't the only one. Every single person in your class was the "brightest and best" their high school had to offer. You aren't that special. Really. Once you accept that no one is comparing ACT/SAT scores, the better. It's not a contest anymore, and frankly no one cares that much to hear it. 

Sixth

PARTY SMART

There are parties at any college. Heck, I've been to a few myself. And I'm not here to lecture on the dangers of underage drinking. I'm here to give tips on how to make good choices and be safe. The key to not making a fool out of yourself and earning an awful rep, is balance. Don't drink to excess. Don't binge because everyone else can. Learn your limits. You take a risk drinking under the age of 21. Don't forget how to act in public. You want to show class and some semblance of dignity. Drink water in between drinks. Keep track of how much alcohol you've consumed. Watch your drink if you are a girl. In unfamiliar situations, trust only yourself. Otherwise, have fun. Cut back. Enjoy college. Smartly. 

Seventh

MAKE YOUR SCHOOL "HOME"

It's all right to miss your parents. That's natural. You're away from home, on your own, for the very first time. You can still call them and tell them about your day. You can still ask them for favors. Just because you don't live in their house anymore doesn't mean they aren't a part of your life. Just don't call them all the time, crying, wanting to come home. Your school is now your home. Your classmates, your family. Find your niche and be happy. Make the most of the experience and grow as an individual. That's really what college is trying to teach you: to be a self sufficient, had-working adult.