Logistics

The logistics of a college campus provide another set of surprises. Parking is a universal issue on college campuses. The pecking order usually gives upper classmen the choice lots while freshmen and sophomores are left in the remote lots, trudging through rain and snow -- provided they are assigned a parking space in the first place!

Carlson was surprised that the basics of keeping track of room keys, college ID and financial issues became significant. "There's an assumed level of responsibility that you don't think about. It's up to you to clean your own room; no one's going to do it for you. It's up to you to keep track of your checking account."

As for that Freshman 20, Murphy hears from many students who were amazed how quickly they gained weight. "It's the reality of inactivity -- sitting in class, studying, then eating pizza."

Advice

In light of these surprises, here's some advice to the incoming freshman class of 2002.

* Discipline and patience are good things to learn.

* Read or review class notes at least weekly.

* Don't expect your roommates to become your best friends.

* It's usually not a good idea to room with your best friend as you may not be best friends for long!

* Watch your diet and find time to exercise regularly.

* Realize that you are not alone in feelings of loneliness, homesickness or inadequacy. Seek out a resident director or friend for counsel.

* Don't worry about your appearance or try to impress everyone you meet.

* No matter how much you think you have everything figured out for the next four years -- major, career, relationships -- it's difficult to predict and stick with the original plan. It's bound to change as your horizons broaden.

A college education offers a 100 percent guarantee that you'll encounter plenty of surprises -- positive and negative -- and a once-in-a-lifetime maturing experience.

Courtesy of ARA Content

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