Script:

I am now a fourth-year student at college, but I can never forget my freshman year here. In general, it is a time filled with anticipation, some anxiety, and wonderful discoveries.

College is a lot different from high school. Your freshman experience will definitely make an impression on you. So, what can you expect as you head off into the wonderful world of higher education? 

The first thing you’ll notice is the workload. It will be heavier than you ever experienced before. The major challenges of college work are the large amount of reading and writing, and the short deadlines. A related effect that can be brought on by the workload is doubt, frustration, and possibly loneliness. You’ll be away from the comforts and friendships your home provided for you over the previous years.

During the freshman year, you’ll be making a lot of new friends. But you should continue to be yourself. Select your friends with the same care and patience you have always shown. Believe it or not, your college friendships will be among the most satisfying and long-term of your life. It’s always exciting to discover how wonderfully diverse college relationships can be.

You’ll also be on your own — you’ll be your own boss 24 hours a day, so to speak. But, remember, with freedom comes responsibility. You should always remember that you are at college with an anticipated mission. Don’t waste your time on meaningless things.

During the freshman year, you may even start thinking about your future. Maybe a certain professor is especially inspiring. Perhaps your school has some great research going on. If some area of study attracts you, find out all you can about it. It might be the beginning of your lifetime career. Going to college is not just to get a degree — it is to find out who you really are and what you are really made for.