| Never let your schooling get in the way of your education (attributed to Mark Twain). I'm about to graduate, and it's true, there are far too many dumb, pointless requirements you have to meet to graduate. Do them, (the sooner the better), but don't quit learning about what you enjoy. That's where the real learning happens, outside the classroom. Be smart about the friends you choose. Start a business (you'll never have this much free time again -- do something with it!) Question your beliefs, and it's okay if you decide you still believe what you did when you were younger. The difference is now you have made that choice. Eat fruits and vegetables at every meal. Even when they suck. Good socks are worth the money. Don't expect people to pay you back if you cover them for something (it's nice if they do, but count it as a donation -- at least among most of my friends!) Get to know your advisor. Get to know your RA. Go to outside meetings for things your interested in (seeing as you're posting on HN, I'm assuming it might be tech related -- check out meetup.com and find ones within an hour or two of your college. It's worth the drive.) Call your parents more often than you think you should. It's okay to ask for help (for academics, socially, emotionally, spiritually, whatever. Don't be afraid to ask.) Enjoy it as much as you can; you get to decide what your experience will be like. |