Nothing Stays the Same: Differences Between Freshmen and Final Year College Students

A lot of things can change over the course of a typical college course. You could have arrived fresh faced and rosy cheeked, full of excitement for this new adventure in your life. However, by the time your final year comes along you can't wait to get out of there. You've seen it all and done it all, yet you're no way ready to let go of this wonderful and yet soul crippling institution. Both first and final year students recognize that your college years will probably be the best of your life. When you discover what are your passions and make life-long friends. May third level education live long and prosper.

Lunch.

In first year you are probably on the college meal plan if you live on campus, or buy lunch everyday in the canteen. You treat yourself, taking in everything your college has to offer- including the shitty cheap meals. In final year, you haven't got the money for that so you have developed a diet that consists of ramen noodles, bread and cereal. Maybe some orange juice every now and then, mostly mixed in with vodka. You live a stressful life, and vodka helps with that.

Late for class?

Freshmen freak the fuck out about things like this. And deadlines for signing up for class. Most would probably never be late because they show up for their lectures ten minutes before they begin. By the time final year rolls around the professor should be pleased that you chose to spend your few precious hours in their presence. You've got study in the library to get back to. They should understand this and want you to do well so they should probably email you the assignments.

Going Out.

As its their first time away from home, first time being legal to drink, the freshmen can get a little crazy. And why not? They're just having a bit of fun. Besides, in final year they won't have the energy to go out in the same way. They'll substitute Jagerbombs for wine and spend the night making fun of the little firsties coming into their bar.

Studying.

For first years that means the two week cramming session before exams and assignments are due. For final years its what they spend each and every hour of their hours spend in the library doing. When they aren't reading up on their topic they're talking to their professors about it because at this stage they all know each other. Whereas first years would not even say hello to their professor out of sheer intimidation. Plus first years are too busy having a good time.

Supplies.

In first year you will buy all the books, no matter the cost. Final years are a bit smarter and just use the library and photocopier. If you're getting money from your parents or whatever for books. Just use that money to photocopy the book and use the substantial amount of change to finance your next night out. Plus most of the books professors give for recommended reading are not at all useful and you might only use one chapter for an essay. So it's not a great use of your potential going out money.

Campus-Style.

How you present yourself is of paramount importance in first year. Your look translates your personality to the entire student body. Everyday requires full make-up and hair gel. You only wear the best of the best. It's a fashion competition. For final years if it doesn't smell and is comfortable then its suitable for classes. You might wash your hair, but only if you either a) have run out of dry shampoo or b) can't find your dry shampoo.

Clubs and Societies.

You will sign up for everything in first year, you may not go to everything but no way will you be able to fit in all those meetings with you going  out all the time. In final year you might step in to see what's going on during sign up day...not. If you really want to make time for a club or society you'll just email them about it. You don't want to hang around all those eager firsties.

Socializing.

So many new friends to make, so little time.  When you spot people from your hometown on campus First years are all 'Oh my God. It's so good to see you!!' But final years duck, roll and cover. We don't have time to make awkward small talk, or maintain fake friendships. First years' Facebook friends rise exponentially during the first month of college. They meet so many new people and they are all awesome and brilliant and college is fantastic. In final year the friends that you have managed to hold onto through all of the exams and stress are the most important people to you. Everyone else can go eat a shit and get out of your way.

Life after the year...

First years freak out about summer plans. Travelling abroad with friends? Do an internship? Work? Have loads of fun and do nothing? So many options. For final years the four years they have spent having the craic has finally come to a close. They are torn between wishing desperately for college year to end and clinging unashamedly to the life that they know and love. The real world can be a scary place. Enjoy college while you can kids.