Holy cow, I’m already a junior! When they tell you college goes by too fast they sure aren’t joking. I’m attending the University of Alabama and although college has its ups and downs, I’m truly lovin’ it. ROLL TIDE! Looking back on my first 2 years, I’ve learned a bunch about myself in the pursuit of #adulting. I’d like to thank you in advance for letting me share a little bit about my college experience!
Grab a cup of joe and let’s get started!
In no particular order;)
1. Golf in the hallway.
During my freshman year I lived in UA’s Presidential suites. My roomies and I had 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a common living room and a small kitchen. As dorms go – pretty good digs! However, it wasn’t always easy to meet people outside our suite. Here are a few recommendations:
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Microwave some popcorn, throw on a good movie and open the door…before you know it, it’s movie night with your 4th floor neighbors!
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Set out your mugs, putters and golf balls for a fun round of golf in the hallway.
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Cook in the community kitchen (we could make a mean lasagna) and prepare to share!
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Host a game night. Hopefully it won’t turn out like the movie haha!These are a few ideas that worked for us! Soon you’ll be the most popular dorm on the floor!
2. Less IS more.
Those of you who know me know how much I love my outfits, shoes, stellar mug collection and all my decor but come move-in day I didn’t want to be the gal rolling up in a U-HAUL! Trust me, you will want to bring everything. You’ll tell yourself, “why yes, I DO need all 7 pairs of sneakers!” Gals. Fight the urge!!! De-clutter the heck out of your closet BEFORE you get to college. Going from high school to college my wardrobe changed and matured… and it felt SO good. Cleaning out my room after graduation was a breath of fresh air. Your dorm/apartment may seem big enough to fit your whole house in but try to bring only the things that make you feel and look your very best! If you haven’t worn it in the last few months then I think it’s safe to say you won’t be wearing it soon either ya know?!
I went from this freshman year…
To this sophomore year!
3. 8 a.m.’s can be your best friend.
Wow, freshman Claire wouldn’t believe that I’m writing this one! In high school, I loved sleeping in. I’d hit snooze 11 times too many. I would roll out of bed, throw on some lipstick, make a to-go coffee and somehow, thank you Lordy, make it to first period on time. Creating my very first schedule freshman year, I wanted nothing to do with early mornings. Unfortunately, a class that I needed was only available at 8 a.m. Well folks, I made it (fueled by Jesus and coffee of course)! Morning classes are so beneficial because they give you time for a morning routine (wake, pray, slay), a productive start to your day and ample time for homework.
4. Downtime isn’t lame.
College can be confusing to navigate. As an out-of-state student I knew no one. I was prepared to step outside my comfort zone and put myself out there, but it wasn’t always easy. So many times I debated going out or staying in. I thought to myself, “will I have FOMO if I stay in?” I love chillin’ with friends and meeting new people. I also crave “me time” at the end of the night for a chick-flick and hot tea. Find your balance. Put yourself out there even if it’s uncomfortable because you’ll really benefit from it in the long run. Some of my fondest memories were from events I was initially apprehensive about going to. I met new friends, made connections and genuinely enjoyed myself. If you’re needing downtime, go for it. Watch your fave movie and recharge. You’ll be surprised by how many of your friends want to just chillax at home too!
5. E.T. phone home.
This is a big one for me. I’m a huge homebody. Leaving home was not a walk in the park! I definitely got homesick. There were even days where I wondered if I made the right choice. Try to call home often. And yes, call not text! A phone call goes a long way. Call your besties from high school. Try not to get too busy that you forget to, because your fam and friends may not say how much they miss hearing from you but they do. FaceTime is a marvelous invention as well!
Huge shout-out to mom and dad for answering my phone calls every day, love y’all♥
6. Be careful with naps.
If you need one take one but limit it to 30 mins or so… any longer and you’ll wake up feeling like a sloth… which will lead to more naps. Too often freshman year it was Naps – 1 and Claire’s productivity – 0.
7. Find your church home.
College is a new season of life – a huge transition and I didn’t want to drift from church or my faith. Grab some friends and go check out churches. I’m so blessed for my campus ministry, Bama Wesley and Church of the Highlands. The student worship night at Highlands, ONE, has been my foundation and an integral part in my college experience. I have grown so much in my faith and in my relationship with God and I’m grateful for the experience. On those days where college was really getting me down… homesickness, hormones, boys, bad tests you know the drill, my church fam was there for me. Join a bible study/small group! Our youth pastor once asked us, “who already feels much better about the week after service?!” and all the hands in the room went up.
8. Red solo cups.
Going into college I was definitely nervous about the party scene. I didn’t really know what to expect. I had crafted this vision of what parties would be like from all the movies. Since drinking isn’t for me right now, I don’t mind being the DD for the night. I’d go out with friends and never once felt pressured. My go-to; my own red solo cup with iced vanilla chai (BYOIVC). I came to realize there’s no shame and that parties aren’t scary at all. With that said, always use the buddy system!
9. Two words: sausage. dip.
Want the best appetizer at the party? My roomies and I hosted a game-day party and we had a lot of hungry guys over so I brought out the reinforcements. This dip, no joke, was gone in 3 minutes.
3 Ingredient Sausage Dip
1 (10-oz) can Original Rotel
1 (8-0z) package cream cheese
1 pound sausage (I use Jimmy Dean)
First, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until crumbled and no longer pink. Then drain. Add Rotel and cream cheese to skillet. Stir until cheese melts. Enjoy with tortilla chips. And if you’re like us and end up running out of chips, hand out warm tortillas!
10. Relationship status.
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Having a bf can be fun!
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Relationships are fun! Be with someone who brings out a smile, laugh and your best self. Someone who is there on the great days and the not-so-great days with love and hugs. Go on adventures. Tell lame jokes. Study hard in the library all night. It’s also a great idea to hang out in group settings. Go to athletic events, the movies or maybe a double date!
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Prayer.
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Going to church with your bae is special. Putting God in the center sets the relationship on a solid foundation. Pray together and for each other.
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Social media.
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Our generation is locked in to social media which has its pros and cons. I believe face-to-face conversations are hands down the best way to communicate. DMs and swipe rights have become a norm to find a date. Get to know your significant other away from the phone screen as well. I read a quote once, “be with someone who makes you forget to look at your phone”. This goes for gal pals too!
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Stay true to yourself.
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Such an important one! Be yourself and never lose sight of who you are, because you are wonderful! When we get into a relationship it’s sometimes easy to forget to take care of ourselves. Make time for yourself – whether it’s going to the gym, crafting, spa night or playing guitar, etc. Make time for the things that bring you joy. Remember, independence and confidence are super attractive!
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Be intentional.
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If you want to go to the movies, mention it! Feeling worn down and need a night for “me time”? Tell him! He’ll understand. Communication is key to any successful relationship and being able to say exactly what’s on your mind in a positive environment goes a long way.
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Leave out the past.
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College is a whole new chapter so try to leave any high school drama/ex’s, etc. behind you. Your college relationship is a part of this new chapter. Time to say goodbye to high school minutiae and hellooo college girl boss!
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Not in a relationship?
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Being single is awesome too! There’s a purpose for this season and I’ve learned how constructive being single is. Take this time to care and focus on YOU! Maybe pick up a new skill, travel to a new city, get a mani/pedi spa treatment, read a new book or whatever it may be that excites you! You deserve the absolute best. Really focus on getting to know yourself and finding your inner-happy so when you’re ready to mingle, you’ll be the girl on fire! Never settle or lower your standards. There’s no rush. Enjoy time with friends and endless chick-flicks! Prince Charming will sweep you off your feet, most likely when you least expect it.
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Go watch this amazing Christian dating series by Ben Stuart : Single / Dating / Engaged / Married
11. Get on board.
Get involved on campus! Every college how-to book tells us so. Take advantage of all the campus amenities. Most universities have state-of-the-art rec centers. Ask your folks what their college rec center looked like… boy, do we have it MADE! (This is a good time to hug and thank your parents) Take advantage of the libraries and study rooms, it’s a good change of scenery. Go greek or join a club or team. It makes a huge difference when you actively put yourself out there. I can assure you there is something for everyone.
For me, greek life was a good fit. My family didn’t go greek so I didn’t know what to expect going in. I feel blessed to have found my new home away from home at Delta Gamma! This is definitely the perfect sisterhood for me. Additionally, many colleges participate in Children’s Miracle Network Hospital’s dance marathons. I joined UADM (UA’s dance marathon) my freshman year and loved it so much I continued my sophomore year. Great way to meet people and do good. I highly recommend!
12. Saban! The best beta fish that ever was.
Being away at college also means not being able to see my puppers everyday. Sad face. NOT easy for a dog mom like me, ok?! Freshman year, my roomies and I decided we needed a pet so we came up with the most sensible idea for us – a beta fish and we shall call him Saban (roll tide)! So if you’re like us and want to care for a pet, go for a beta fish because they are awesome for the dorm setting.
13. They know my order.
“I’ll have a Bama blitz in a mug, please!” I’m a regular at Tuscaloosa’s coffee shops. Go out and explore… there is indeed life after Starbucks! Leaving campus and studying in a super homey coffee shop just radiates good vibes. Heritage House, Monarch Espresso Bar and O’Henry’s… thank you for letting me drink gallons of your finest coffee and study so long that I close the place down, y’all are the real mvps.
14. 20-minute rule.
I read about this in a book my mom sent me and it really works. If you’ve got a test and need to retain a ton of information, study the material 20 minutes BEFORE bed and 20 minutes AFTER you wake up – then take a break. I actually tried this the week of my finals. Viola! It worked.
15. Breath of fresh air.
Go outside and explore your college backyard. Tuscaloosa is surrounded by lakes, rivers, and parks, oh my! Sunbathing on the cliffs at Lake Nikol is a perfect study break. Heading down to the riverwalk with my guitar and Eno is a great way to decompress. Get your tan on at the campus pool, take a jog or have a picnic! A little bit of Vitamin D works wonders and can brighten your day.
16. Shopping: proceed with caution.
Oh Target, why must you always put the cute new mugs at the front of the store? Go ask my roomies and they’ll tell you – I go for milk and easy mac and leave with a new coffee mug, 5 throw pillows and 3 frozen pizzas! Like a magnet, I feel pulled to the cosmetics isle when I really just need bananas. Relatable? Try to stick to your list. Start a BUDGET! #adulting. I use an old mason jar as a piggy bank for all my spare change – cha ching!
Oh Target, why must you always put the cute new mugs at the front of the store? Go ask my roomies and they’ll tell you – I go for milk and easy mac and leave with a new coffee mug, 5 throw pillows and 3 frozen pizzas! Like a magnet, I feel pulled to the cosmetics isle when I really just need bananas. Relatable? Try to stick to your list. Start a BUDGET! #adulting. I use an old mason jar as a piggy bank for all my spare change – cha ching!
17. Balance work and play.
I’m BLESSED to be attending my dream school. When it comes to my studies, I keep my nose to the grindstone. I’m studying fashion merchandising so the majority of my classes are business related. Let me tell ya, economics gave me a run for my money, no pun intended:) I worked my booty off! Meeting with my professors one on one was a game changer for me. Most professors genuinely care about your success so make an appointment with your prof early and remember to be mindful of drop dates and deadlines. As much as you won’t want to… stay ahead on the reading because it really makes a difference on test scores. Take advantage of study groups, tutoring and writing centers. Go chase knowledge my friends!
18. There’s life after football season… WHAT?!
We sure do love our Crimson Tide #roadto18! In addition to football, Bama has a lot going on! Hit up a baseball game with your besties, blankets and snacks. Basketball game anyone? Bring in your best posters and loudest chants. At UA, our gymnastics team is phenomenal and we get HYPE at the meets. There are tennis matches, swim meets, softball games and track. There’s never a dull moment. Go support your teams – school pride feels good!
19. 30 second dance party!
Stand up. Shake it out. Turn on your jam. A 30 second dance party isn’t just for Meredith and Cristina! This is my stress release. It wakes up my brain and body and helps me regroup on those long nights of studying. I’ve done this in the library study room, no shame. Dance like nobody’s watching! Do more of what makes your soul happy. For me that’s worship, singing, dancing, playing guitar, fashion and blogging (whoop whoop)! Make time for you, radiate your positivity, smile and as I always say, “leave the world better than you found it!”
we made it! thank you SO much for reading!
up next junior year!
ciao, claire♥
Vintage Soul Marie 
These are some awesome tips for any incoming freshman or even sophomore, I will be starting my senior year of college in the fall. I still can’t believe there the time went I feel like just yesterday I was moving in for the first time as a freshman in college, scared and nervous to leave my parents and go to school two states away and try to make new friends. It’s possible even if you aren’t a huge party scene introvert. I have found my tribe of my people on campus and couldn’t be happier and more than excited to get to campus for my last year of college. Thanks for sharing these tips are amazing.
megan | MySprinkleofPrep.wordpress.com
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Thank you so much! It’s crazy how quickly time flies. Enjoy your senior year and wishing you success in everything!
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