Surviving and Thriving College

A Letter From Erin

Surviving and Thriving College: Do as I say, not as I do (or did)

Congratulations graduates! You are off to a new educational encounter when Monday/Wednesday/Friday never meets up with Tuesday/Thursday, you may never have to memorize another Shakespearean sonnet and making your bed is always optional. (I need to ask my former roommates, but I’m pretty sure I never, ever did, which is gross, actually. Make your bed). You are sure to encounter the ungodly smell of burnt microwave popcorn, the shrieking of someone who put a red sock in with the whites and the constant alarm of your neighbor who just can never get up for class. Also, Dolce and Gabbana Light Blue perfume. Clouds of it. One whiff of that stuff brings back all the memories. But one of the most important things about college, other than going to class and having a good time is taking care of yourself. So I have compiled a list of items that I wish I had known before I gleefully waved goodbye to my parents on the first day of freedom. Which in full transparency meant going down the street to LSU and coming home every Sunday so someone (and by someone, I don’t mean me - could do my laundry). 

1. Extrovert yourself, even if you are an introvert. Join clubs, go through rush, attend events, try something new. Remember most everyone is new and navigating the same situation you are. I was lucky here because I went to school in my hometown so I could afford to be lazy on the social front. That was kind of obnoxious of me. Go make new friends.
2. Wash your face every night, and morning for that matter. Evening makeup definitely loses its luster in the am. Even if you are tired, homesick, or just lazy, taking a moment to throw some water on your face gives your mood a refresh. Using our cleansing balm, gel moisturizer and serum before bed means you have done something good for yourself,  AND your skin. These are packed with marine algae extract and vitamin E, to deliver deep hydration and a natural glow while soothing skin. Pro tip- Saint Crewe’s balm cleanser gets EVERYTHING off, including that bar stamp. Didn’t hear it from me.
3. Embrace every day – college only lasts four years (well for most). Make a plan, meet someone new, take a different route to class, wake up a little earlier than normal every once in a while, smile and say hello to people you pass. And for the LOVE of all things holy, go to class. I never went, and mine weren’t even early! Somehow I ended up completing an accounting degree in 4 years, but it wasn’t always pretty. I never saw a 9am class, and I had one every semester. My parents didn’t know this, but I guess they do now! Also I’m not an accountant. So we can all guess how that went.  
4. Eat right, hydrate, rinse and repeat. While the cafeteria most likely offers several brands of mystery meat, at least try to explore some fruits and veggies as well. Also eat at the right time of the day. I discovered the hard way that pizza at 2am is going to pack a punch, quick. Drink lots of water in preparation for big nights out or long walks to the hydration stations. Water is the very best thing for you and your complexion. Feeling a little sluggish, mousy or just not your day? Spritz on our facial mist for a glowy finish - it also helps fight against harmful blue light from all that time spent in the library 😜. And yes, spend lots of time in the library!
5. Exercise. Walk, run, pickle or pedal – all great things for you. And also a great way to meet more people.  And once you get cleaned up from an endorphin surge, take care of your skin with a little Water Whip for a dewy glow! This is also helpful to combat that 2am pizza situation.
6. Say yes. Got an invite to dinner or a football game? Don’t say no, give it a go! Tuck and roll into new experiences, even if it makes you a little nervous. Trying new things is a solid way to break out into your college career and you will get a confidence boost while you’re at it – some of my best memories from college are from going to football games my freshman year. And I’m still forever grateful we didn’t have the phones to share those experiences with the world! 😘 But y’all do and we love you for it - so show off your new found fun. Everyone loves a tip on a great neighborhood burger place, walking path or discount party store. You will be an influencer in no time!
7. Survive and thrive. Call your family. GO TO CLASS and seriously, make your bed. Lead by example.  Stay up late. Make memories. Nap whenever you need to. Take pictures. Make friends. But most importantly, practice perspective and gratitude every day. What a privilege to get to make so many memories and so many mistakes all at the same time.