As 2013 came to a close, people everywhere began to make those New Year’s resolutions that they may or may not keep. With the spring semester beginning, Jaspers undoubtedly have some resolutions of their own, whether it be the traditional ‘hitting the gym more often’ or the ambitious 4.0 GPA. There are also a few resolutions that a second semester freshman will likely make after all of the experiences that come with their very first semester of college.
Here are a few things a second semester freshman probably wishes they could tell their first semester selves.
1. Know yourself (and your schedule). That 8 a.m. class on Friday morning probably was not the best idea. If you are just getting to bed at 3 a.m. the night before or shutting down Netflix in the waning hours of the morning, then 8 a.m. classes just are not for you. Schedule your classes so you have the best chance of making it to every one.
2. Navigating Locke’s. There’s only so many times you can ask for a cheeseburger or a quesadilla before it becomes too much. Try to mix it up as much as you can.
3. You might not need that $200 textbook after all. Renting a textbook does not mean the book is going to be beat up and smell weird. And if your professor says the book is not important, it probably is not.
4. Times Square is not so fun after the 100th visit. A huge part of Manhattan College is of course, New York City. So, get to know the city, but maybe the parts that are not so touristy. New York is a big place, get exploring.
5. SO wasn’t for you. If you thought you were in love with your major and it turns out you hate it, do not feel stuck. Talk to professors and explore your other interests.
6. Maybe you did not need three sweatshirts, a lanyard and a hat. School spirit is great but maybe buying out the bookstore in the first week of school was not the best idea, you do need some money for the actual books.