First week of school as a college freshman

Hearing thirty voices at once whilst walking through the hallways, feeling lost, confused and anxious.  As a college freshman the new world can be so exciting and also overwhelming. Within the first week alone, I missed three buses to get to school and bugged my roommate for a ride everyday. Each day I meet like thirty new faces and I never remember anyone's name even after having full blown conversations with them. The routine of high school compared to college is completely different. What is my purpose of attending college?  In English class I have learned about American history, how to find my voice and how to reflect on my past which molded me into who am I today. In Mathematics, I am learning about the roots of words and prefixes such as penta, which is the prefix for five and septa which is the prefix for seven derived from Latin and etc. In African American history, I am learning how to be more open minded, speak with confidence, project my voice and be proud of who I am. In a nut shell, each class I attend does not teach me what it is actually intended to teach. I believe the material I am paying 30k + a year for can be learned in normal everyday life.  However, in these two weeks, it has hit me that you are really on your own  in college. I mean everyone tells you this, but it does not really sink in until your parents drop you off with the hugs, kisses, goodbyes and you're in class the third week with a quiz in front of you. So far I have learned that YOU are responsible for your own education, no one is behind your back begging you to do your work. Networking is key. If you try to kiss your professors butt he or she will know and it will not boost your grade but you should also attempt to develop a relationship with them. Even Albert Einstein has to study if he is trying to pass with an A at least. My new friends have saved me from turning in a late paper and they have motivated me to get involved. You do not have to be afraid to speak up, because almost everyone feels the same way. You will probably do the most reading you ever did in your life; well if you decide to do it.  Therefore college is an essential experience when it comes to maturing and growing.  Everyone is so welcoming at Penn State Abington, I love it here.