Written by Genesis Severino-Ellis, Account Executive, Vybrnt
Starting college can be an exciting time for incoming freshmen. They are oftentimes exposed to a new environment, gain a new sense of independence and are subject to maneuvering through life at the tender age of 18. The following is a list of friendly advice every freshman should know upon starting college.
1. It’s okay to be scared… no one’s really got it figured out.
Going into college can be a scary thing. You’re only 18 trying to navigate this thing we call life. And at that, you are expected to be extremely successful upon graduating in only four years! But the thing is, you’re not always sure of what’s to come. Life is unpredictable and plans don’t always fall through as anticipated. As a freshman, you should not stress about having your college career planned out. It’s okay to not know what major you plan on pursuing or what career you have envisioned for yourself. College should be a time to explore your interests and develop the skill sets and networks that benefit you. It may be overwhelming and at times intimidating to see how successful your peers are but, always remember that comparison will distract you from realizing your future!
2. Be proactive and build your resume now!
Although you may not have it all figured out, the time to be proactive and get involved is now! Join clubs and organizations that interest you and prioritize a healthy balance between social and academic organizations. Your resume is a crucial document that details your experiences and skill sets which qualify you for a given position. Waiting until your sophomore or junior year to develop it will only hinder you from potential internships and networking opportunities! For professional help on improving your resume, consult Penn State’s Career Services and get acclimated with other on-campus resources now!
3. Be careful online…you never know who’s watching.
Protecting your online presence is crucial during these four years of college. It is important to remember that whatever you post on social media will follow you even after it’s been deleted. Studies have proven that “70% of employers look at social media to screen candidates during the hiring process, and about 43% of employers use social media to check on current employees” (Business News Daily). Social media has become a norm in our society that impacts virtually every area of our professional life. Instead of making online mistakes that could potentially harm your future, consider investing in professional online networking apps such as LinkedIn from which studies have also proven that students and graduates receive internships, full-time jobs and life-long connections.
4. Prioritize your mental health!
Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, the topic of mental health in the collegiate setting has been a growing concern. Studies have proven that rates for anxiety, depression and substance-use have increased during this time period and the need for better mental health resources is at an all-time high. As a college student, it is important to remember to prioritize your mental health above all. There is no way to be a successful student without having good mental health. The two go hand-in-hand. As a freshman, it’s important to familiarize yourself with on-campus resources that cater to your mental health. Among these organizations, Penn State’s Counseling and Psychological Resources (CAPS) is dedicated to “offering a wide range of services for undergraduate and graduate students” as it pertains to mental health.
Happy Valley Comm 