If you are anything like me, you most likely have a problem accepting your peers as authority figures and taking their advice.
That said, you are probably wondering why you should bother to listen to what I have to say. Hear me out. It is the start of a new school year. Whether you are a freshman or senior, this is a time for new beginnings. You get the chance to start off with a clean slate - that is unless you are still on probation for something you "supposedly" did last semester. The future looks bright, you've got the world on a string, and what should you do now?
Listen to your parents. That's right. You would be surprised by how often they really do know what is best. I am sure your folks go on and on telling you what they think you ought to do. I used to let it go in one ear and out the other, but then I realized that they are actually right. Your parents only want what is best for you. Lord knows they have invested enough into your future. The very least you can do is hear them out. You may just be surprised by how much they can really help you out.
I saw the light and took their advice. Here a few pieces of advice from some parents that I think you can agree will be helpful to us all:
Get involved. Find a worthwhile organization. Not only is it a great resume booster, but it is also very rewarding and a good way to meet people.
Study. Whether it be at the library or a friend's room down the hall, you will certainly want to keep those grades up.
Go to class. You will fall way behind otherwise.
Have fun. While your main objective is to get an education, you'll miss out on a lot of laughs and great friendships if you spend all your time hitting the books.
Know how to say 'no.' A favorite of my father ... especially when the proceeding question is, "Do you want to go back to my room?"
Cheer for the Irish. This one is just common sense, also a safety precaution because you'll probably be hurt at that first home game otherwise.
Tell the truth. Whether it be with your roommate or ResLife, honesty is the best policy and is always appreciated.
Be careful. Use some common sense. You really do not want to get into trouble. Trust me.
Call home occasionally. Your parents will love to hear from you, and if you call them they may just be inclined not to call you so much.
Don't get too worked up over petty problems. As a compulsive worrier, I hear this one a lot. Things really do have a way of working out.
Be yourself. We've all heard this, but if people cannot like you for who you are then forget them.
Cherish it. Everyone says "These are the best years of your life," and "It will fly by." They're right.
So those are just a few of the words of wisdom that my parents told me. They may or may not be different than what you were told, but chances are your parents will have at least a few worthwhile things to say. Your parents were young once too - you may not want to think too hard about this, it can be a little disturbing. So listen up and hear them out. Taking their advice may just make your year that much easier. Remember to thank them once in a while for all they do.
Make sure you go out and have some fun, and here's to another great year in South Bend.
Molly Acker is a junior communication and humanistic studies double major at Saint Mary's. She can be contacted at acke6758@saintmarys.edu.
The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
