Embrace being a freshman

My freshman year was pretty embarrassing. I had braces, a loaded class schedule and a big fat mouth. I crowded the halls talking to my friends, and I paid no attention to walking the wrong way on the main stairwell. Yes, sadly, I was that freshman.

I knew upperclassmen were annoyed by my mere presence, but I didn’t let that stop me. I continued to be the most obnoxious freshman possible in every situation possible.

My first reality check hit me when I was the sole freshman to join the Science Olympiad team, and boy did I learn fast. Seniority was a major part of how the club ran, and I figured out that going with the flow was my best option. Confidence as a freshman was not something I had to worry about, so with that under my belt, I discovered that being the lowest tier on the hierarchy actually had its perks.

There was little responsibility, tons of learning opportunities and as long as I was friendly, everyone answered my questions with little disdain. I learned how to hide behind football players in the halls to avoid being trampled along with many other valuable tips just by taking a step back and listening.

A lot of people can’t stand freshmen, but there’s also a lot of people who are there to help. Seriously, embracing your low status is actually the best way to win over an upperclassman’s trust. You’ll come off as curious instead of entitled, which is something I wish I would’ve known earlier.

You may not get a parking spot or the choice to eat lunch outside, but freshman year is a great time to just enjoy your age. Ask questions, be friendly, listen to other people and you’re gonna love it here. Even if you don’t do those things, you’re gonna love it here. I promise.