Written by: Geetanjali Goel, Edited by: Aaliya Ashwin
As I write you this letter,
I hope you have been well. I hope your college journey till this hectic month has been well. You have had fun, met professors and made friends. I hope college was all you imagined and better. To all those away from home, welcome to the feeling of homesickness and all the independence you ever wished for.
Embrace uncertainty.
It’s common to feel lost at first. College can feel overwhelming, and you may believe that others have everything under control. But believe me, everyone is confronting the same uncertainties. Some simply disguise it better than others. Be nice to yourself; this is your chance to discover and learn. Embrace the unknown, because it will teach you the most significant lessons. Don’t be scared to take risks and try. Don’t be afraid to take chances and try new things, whether that means joining a new group or taking a class outside of your major. The most uncertain events can be the best decisions you make in your life.
Focus on Growth, not Perfection.
You’ve spent a lot of your life striving for perfection, whether it’s achieving the highest grades or pleasing everyone. However, in college, you will quickly realise that growth is more important. Mistakes are part of the journey and help mould who you become. When you fail—and you will—see
it as a learning opportunity, not as a reflection on your worth. Continue going forward with the understanding that progress, not perfection, is the goal.
Create Authentic Relationships
College is full of individuals from various walks of life, and the connections you make here will be some of the most significant of your life. Prioritise quality over quantity in your friendships. Surround yourself with individuals who will encourage, challenge, and support you. Seek mentors and form meaningful relationships with teachers and classmates who will motivate you to succeed. These ties will support you through difficult times.
Manage Your Time Wisely
One of the most difficult obstacles you’ll face is time management. College imposes several demands—classes, homework, social events, and personal responsibilities. Learning to balance it all is essential. If you need time to yourself, don’t be scared to decline invitations. Prioritise your well-being along with your studies. Calendars and to-do lists can help you keep organised and ensure that you are meeting both your responsibilities and your own needs.
Explore your passions.
College provides a unique opportunity to learn what interests you. Be open to new topics, interests, and employment opportunities. You may arrive with a clear concept of what you want to do, but it is acceptable if that vision changes. Exploration can lead to some of the most satisfying experiences. Exploration, at this time can lead to your most gratifying moments. If something fresh sparks your interest, don’t be scared to deviate from your path—this is your chance to explore.
Take Care of Yourself.
Your health should always come first. With all of the pressures of college life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of maintaining your mental and physical health. Prioritise sleep, eat healthily, exercise regularly, and take pauses when needed. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to seek help—your college will most likely have counselling and mental health options available.
Celebrate the journey.
Finally, remember to enjoy the experience. It’s tempting to focus entirely on the end result—graduation or that first job—but the true magic is in the journey. Celebrate any success, no matter how minor. Every friendship, every moment of growth, is worth cherishing.
Believe in yourself, embrace the trip, and enjoy the ride.
With hope,
Your Future Self.
