Ah the car is packed – road trip – destination is Montana State University. Coming from a small town in Montana, knowing most of the town residents, being somewhat popular and feeling like life is pretty easy, college is the next step in life. This was my experience years ago. School came easy in high school, same for college? Possibly not. College was challenging, mom was not there to make certain the homework was done and bedtime was kept.

Making my own decisions was so exciting, no one telling me what to do. FREEDOM!! Making friends was easy; people seem to automatically like my personality. Certainly will be the same for roommates in the dorm, was my thought. Food at hand whenever the stomach desires, could be good or maybe not.

Best advice for going to college – be flexible – be open to surprises.

TEN Surprises in college:

1.Laundry
The definition of laundry is the cleaning of clothing through means of water and a device referred to as a washing machine. Sorting clothing and ironing, really, not necessary, right, we will check back after your first load of laundry by yourself.  I always enjoyed the young men with pink socks. The socks were white; however, when washed with a dark color, like red, they come out pink. Save the change as quarters will become your best friend.

2.Naps
Screaming and carrying on as a small child because I was not going to take a nap is a faint memory now that napping is my favorite midday activity. Go to class; take a nap and then the homework. Napping is refreshing and wonderful especially if your first class is 8am.

3.Roommates
Roommates and making new friends is fun and different, a new atmosphere for many. It was one thing sharing a room with my sisters and a whole new ball game sharing a room with someone I do not know and does not share my same idea of clean and quiet.  My roommates where great, many became close friends, it was just that one roommate that the police were called.

4.Bathroom
Is the bathroom really down the hall? I am supposed to remember my towel, shampoo and all other hygiene items in the morning? Oh and do not forget the key to the dorm room. You must be kidding was my first thought. Not to mention when the bathroom was full or there was no more hot water. I was definitely late a couple of times to class first thing in the morning. When I leave my house to this date I go back in at least once, having forgotten some item for the day.

5.Freedom
Oh yes, I am my own boss, I was so excited. No one was going to tell me what to do. I can talk on the phone as long as I want and no one is going to be bothering me to get the home phone. The internet and computer is all mine and no sharing. Coming and going as I want, coming home whenever I feel like. All this freedom is so exhilarating and exciting. Still to this date when my husband is out of town, I feel like a college student again, freedom, no certain time to eat dinner, going to bed whenever I want and eating whatever I want.

6.Homesick
Living away from home for the first time is so exciting, an adjustment that can be harder than expected. Homesickness reminds me of summer camps when I was young, college felt like summer camp at times with homesickness. Mother has a whole new meaning of comfort and stability.

7.Friends
The University in Bozeman has an attendance larger than most small communities in Montana. More students fit in one class room than attend the entire high school of my small school. Meeting new and different people can be fun and scary all at the same time. Organizations, clubs, night life and classes all offer an opportunity to meet new people. Find organizations that fit your personality and your hobbies. Included in friends are those of the opposite sex. For me it was BOYS!! Be careful boys do have coodies (ie, germs). Explore adventures that were never offered in many small communities. Have fun, meet new people, make new friends, flap your freedom wings, and learn new and different ways of life. Stick to your values and morals. Know when to say “No” and when to say “Yes”.

8.Health
Being on my own was challenging when it came to staying healthy. Choices with alcohol, partying, drugs, sex, sleep patterns and eating are challenges that students face. Coping with new situations and freedom can create problems. Find a counselor on campus, student advisor or teacher that can give you advice and someone to talk with. Colds, flu and wisdom teeth are common health concerns for college students.

9.Food
The buffet style eating at universities as well as the dessert line can cause weight gain. I still like to go to the university cafeteria just to sample the food, the great variety of food and of course the dessert choices. Ordering pizza, fast food, snacking late at night and crazy schedules can add weight concerns. Eat well balanced meals at regular times. Watch the portions and carbohydrates as well as the caffeine levels as this can interfere with sleep.

10.Memories
College will make some of your most impactful memories of becoming an adult. College is about exploring who you are, maturing, learning, becoming an individual and is often the best years of one’s life. Take photos. I have some great photos of my college years.  Friends, activities and life make for great conversation some 30 years after my college days.

Pamela Bussi grew up on a farm and ranch in northern Montana, along the hi-line. She attended high school in Shelby, 42 miles from home. She grew up loving her lifestyle, and now writes and photographs  lifestyle and life’s lessons. She and her husband Paul live in Bozeman and own Ideal Photography. www.pamelabussi.com