University Regrets: Lessons Learned and Advice for Future Students

Everyone has regrets, especially during their time at university. We often wish we had made different choices or spent more time on certain aspects of our college life. In this article, I will share my own top three regrets from my university experience and offer advice to current and future students based on these lessons.

Regret 1: Not Being More Involved on Campus

One of my biggest regrets is not being more involved on campus during my first few years. I wish I had joined clubs and participated in events more actively. Now, as I look back, I want to avoid making the same mistake and encourage myself— and other students—to get more involved in extracurricular activities.

Joining clubs and attending events can help you:

Expand your network Discover new interests Improve your leadership and teamwork skills Mentally and socially engage with your peers

Regret 2: Failing to Build a Relationship with My First College Roommate

Another regret I have is not taking the time to get to know my first college roommate. Due to my obnoxious, know-it-all attitude at the age of 19, I missed the opportunity to understand someone with a different life experience. Growing up in a different environment, my roommate spoke with a cultural dialect, listened to rap music, and came from a poverty-stricken area in LA, which was vastly different from my own upbringing in mid-western America.

What I should have done was:

Ask questions about his family background Explore his culture and experiences Cherish the opportunity to learn from someone with a different worldview

Building strong relationships with roommates and peers can significantly enhance your college experience and provide lifelong friendships. Always be open to learning from those around you, no matter how different their backgrounds might be.

Regret 3: Spending Too Much Money in the First Year and Moving to a University Later

When I started college, I spent all the money my parents had saved for me in the first year before moving to a different university, which meant I had to pay for all four years of my education myself. This was a significant financial burden that I wish I could change.

The key lessons from this experience are:

Manage your finances wisely and plan ahead Consider the full cost of attendance before making changes Seek financial assistance and understand different funding options

Furthermore, my grades are not as stellar as I would like, even though I work hard. I feel that I have not capitalized on my time in college and that it has been a waste of money and time. This regret underscores the importance of not only consistent effort but also strategic course selection and academic planning.

Advice for Future Students

Based on these lessons, I would like to offer the following advice to current and future students:

Get Involved: Join clubs, participate in events, and find ways to engage with your peers. This will enhance your learning experience and provide valuable skills. Build Relationships: Treat your roommates and peers with respect and curiosity. Try to understand their backgrounds and learn from their diverse experiences. Plan Your Finance: Create a budget, understand the full cost of attendance, and explore financial aid options to ensure you can manage your expenses effectively. Seek Direction: Before overloading on courses, ensure you know your passions and desired major. If in doubt, consider the military as a time to learn and grow while gaining valuable experience.

Embrace the challenges and opportunities that university life brings. Remember that each experience, no matter how difficult, is worth learning from. By reflecting on these regrets, you can make more informed decisions and create a more fulfilling college experience.