A common misconception is that the “college experience” is defined by partying and getting wasted. As an incoming freshman, I took that as a challenge to find other ways to make great memories and have fun without having to party every weekend. As I began to look for other ways to fulfill my “college experience,” I came across some great ideas.

At the beginning of the school year, there are usually many events where the different on-campus organizations set up tables and try to recruit the freshmen. This is a great time to see what sports, charities, internships, religious groups, and clubs the school has to offer. Clubs are a great way to fill up any extra time you have between classes, and they give you something to do, such as volunteering, if you have an extra day on the weekend. They are also a great way to meet people who have similar interests as you; maybe you will meet your new best friend in the club you join!

Late nights aren’t just for partiers. A movie marathon is a great way to spend a night with friends without having to get all dressed up with high heels that make your feet feel like they are going to fall off. After changing into snuggly pajamas, each person can bring a movie and a snack. It is a great way to get to know your roommates or dorm mates while expanding your movie repertoire.

Another late night activity that is often brought about by necessity rather than pure entertainment is late night trips to Walmart. You never know what time it will be when you realize that a big bag of puffy hot Cheetos or a two- liter bottle of soda is undeniably essential for your survival. Unsurprisingly, when you ask your friends, they usually come up with an excuse to ditch the homework and join you on your adventure. Seriously, try it some time.

College is a time for exploration and learning new things, and, for me, that is poker. Poker is a great way to pass the time when you have a couple of hours before your next class. Board games and card games in general seem to become much more interesting as you get older. Obviously, as a college student, you probably shouldn’t bet actual money while playing poker, but Halloween candy seems to suffice.

A way to get to know the people in your dorm is by having door decorating contests. Holidays are the easiest themes, but you can choose any other theme such as a luau and the beach or space and aliens. A simple rule can be that all decorations must be handmade. It’s always fun to see how each person uses her imagination and portrays her personality in her decorating.

Another outing that can get you away from campus is visiting the beach. It is always fun to make a day of it; take food, bring sweats for staying late and watching the sunset, and maybe even bring a Frisbee or some other game to help pass the time. Going to the beach is a nice way to relax and forget about school for a little while if you need a break from the stress. If you don’t live close to a beach, you can try finding landmarks around where you live, or maybe a museum, and go visit it and learn about your town’s history. You can also find a hiking trail or forest and make a day of exploring the world outside your dorm room.

A fun experiment to try is to go to a local grocery store with a group of friends, have a limit of $5, and see if everyone can come up with a meal for a couple of people; then, have a potluck with your creations. It is a great way to see who is talented in the kitchen and who you should avoid if they offer to make you dinner.

As an incoming freshman, college can be a little intimidating. However, the college experience shouldn’t be defined by the number of parties you go to, but instead it should be defined by the memories that you take home with you once the year is over.

 

 

 

 Natali Monks is a freshman in college and is majoring in Psychology. She hopes to one day work with at-risk women and children. Although reading and writing have never been at the top of her list of enjoyable activities, she loves the rain, snuggling with her cat, dancing, a boy, singing loudly in the car, and spending time with her friends.