survivingfreshmanyear

[survivingfreshmanyear]

Freshman Year is a Wrap

Wow. I blinked and freshman year is already over, and I still feel like I just moved in. The girl who walked onto campus last fall with way too many clothes and zero idea what she was doing feels worlds away from who I am now.

This year has been full of so much growth, more than I even realized until I started packing up. Every single class, every late night in the library, every awkward introduction, it all added up to something that mattered. Strangers have turned into soulmates, I’ve made friends I can’t imagine life without. I found little routines that kept me sane and figured out what it means to really be on my own.

Move-out is so weird. You take everything off the walls and suddenly the space feels empty again, like you were never really here. It looks just the same as it did almost 8 months ago. I like to imagine that our laughter and chaos and deep conversations at midnight are in these walls.

If you're getting ready to move out too, take it slow. Let yourself remember things as you pack. Blast music. Hug your people so tight. Grab one last iced coffee even if you're already over budget. Say goodbye without rushing it, even if it stings a little.

Freshman year was nothing like I expected, but somehow it gave me exactly what I needed. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and even more excited for what’s next! Until then, enjoy summer break with family and hometown friends and spaces.

Signing off!!... for now

[survivingfreshmanyear]

Finals Week at USC: Chaos, Cramming & Crushing those finals!!!

Finals week is really something. I’m running on music, caffeine, and maybe 3 brain cells at this point. If you’ve ever spent 12 hours straight on the 4th floor of T-Coop, you already know the exact type of emotional damage I’m talking about. The 4th floor is starting to feel like my second home… or maybe a haunted house of forgotten sleep.

Here are my best tips for finals week:

1.Sleep > Studying till 3AM

I used to think all-nighters were a rite of passage. Now I realize nothing I study past midnight actually sticks. Like, seriously... just sleep. You won't be able to retain much information if you aren't well rested enough.

2. Make studying aesthetic

Snag a corner table, grab your go-to Starbucks order (I love the pink drink or Iced almond milk honey flat white), and put on a cute playlist. Romanticizing studying makes it slightly less painful. This goes hand in hand with finding your favorite study spot! I love the Graduate Inn, 4th floor of T-Coop, or the counselors cafe in the Law School building.

3. Don’t suffer in silence

Text that smart girl from class. Go to office hours. Cry to your friends on FaceTime. You don’t get extra credit for struggling alone.

4. Give yourself grace

Everyone has to take finals, and they suck. No matter what your score ends up being, don't let that drag you down. You worked so hard and tried your best, don't lose hope for the upcoming finals!!

5. Prioritize

During finals week, I will spend one day or one study-sesh dedicated to one single class. It is usually the one that is in closest proximity, but if you're really struggling in a specific class make sure to dedicate time to keep repeating and studying until you're confident. It is never too early to start preparing for finals!!

[survivingfreshmanyear]

Freshman Nights Out at USC: Staying Safe While Having Fun

Know Your Limits

Going out is fun, but it's so important to understand your boundaries. Whether it's your first time drinking or you're familiar with it, always pace yourself. Remember, it's okay to say no, and you don't have to keep up with anyone else. I also wouldn't take any drinks from anyone else, and make sure you know exactly how much you are drinking.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Before heading out, make sure to eat a good meal. Whether you are drinking or not, this is still important! However, if you do drink on an empty stomach, it can lead to quicker intoxication and a rougher next day. Also, keep water on hand and sip it throughout the night to stay hydrated.

Buddy System is a Must

Always go out with friends you trust and agree to look out for each other. Make plans to check in periodically and never leave anyone behind. If someone wants to leave early, make sure that they get home safely.

Plan Your Transportation

Know how you're getting to and from your destination. Whether it's a designated driver, a ride-share app, or public transportation, have a plan in place before the night begins. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, trust your gut. It's better to be cautious and remove yourself from uncomfortable situations. Your safety is more important than any party or social event.

Remember, college is about making memories and having fun, but your well-being should always come first. Stay safe!!!

4/18

[survivingfreshmanyear]

All About Greek Life!!!

Today I’m here to share some real insight into Greek life. At the University of South Carolina, it is a big deal. As someone who has experienced both the highs and lows of being in an SEC sorority, I feel like I can give a genuine look at what it means to be part of a sisterhood.

Let’s start with recruitment. I’m not going to sugarcoat it. Rush is a lot. There is so much preparation that goes into it and the days are long and draining. We were up at 5 a.m. and didn’t stop until 8 p.m. It was rough, but once my morning brain wore off, I actually had a lot of fun. I met so many amazing women during recruitment, including some of my closest friends. Looking back, I would do it all again.

That said, there are a few things I wish I had known. In the beginning, I really tried to fit the stereotypical sorority girl persona and that was a huge mistake. There is so much pressure to fit in when the focus should really be on finding your fit. As soon as I started being my true self, everything changed. I had better conversations, made stronger connections, and felt more at home. Most importantly, I found my big, Bella, who has become my absolute best friend. She is the person I go to for everything and I truly cannot imagine college without her.

You join thinking these are your people and while that can absolutely be true, deep friendships take time. Just because you share letters does not mean you will instantly click with everyone. At first, I felt a little out of place, and that is completely normal. What helped me most was showing up. I went to events, supported other sisters, and opened myself up to friendships outside of my immediate circle. Some of the best connections I have made came from the most unexpected moments.

One of the biggest myths about Greek life is that sisterhood is instant. In reality, it builds over time. It is in the late-night talks, random coffee runs, shared goals, and consistent support. I didn’t expect to find a community that felt this strong, but I did. These are the girls who hype me up, keep me grounded, and remind me of who I am on both the good and hard days.

One of the best choices I made was applying for a leadership position. I currently serve as one of our Instagram chairs and it has been such a rewarding experience. It has allowed me to be creative, help represent our chapter, and connect with sisters I might not have met otherwise. It has also helped me grow personally and professionally, and made me feel even more involved.

Of course, the events are fun. Formals, mixers, sisterhood retreats, it is all part of the experience. But what I love most is that it is never just about going out. It is about being surrounded by people who genuinely care about you. People who lift you up and make the little moments feel special. The best part is that there is flexibility. You do not have to do everything. You can show up in the way that works best for you and that is always enough.

Greek life is so much more than people realize. It is leadership, friendship, growth, service, and fun all in one. It has taught me how to manage responsibilities, support causes I care about, and show up for others. Most of all, it has given me memories I will carry for life and a sisterhood that truly feels like home.

Here's the link to learn more about recruitment- specifically UofSC!!!

[survivingfreshmanyear]

What I Wish I Knew Before Starting College

I have so much advice for incoming freshmen, but here are some of the biggest things I wish I had thought about before stepping onto campus!

1. If You’re Not a Morning Person, Avoid Early Classes

I really thought I could handle those 8 AMs, but once the semester got going (and mornings got colder), it became harder and harder to wake up, get ready, and walk to class. Not only that, I wasn’t retaining much because my brain just wasn’t awake yet.

Sometimes, you’ll get stuck with a morning class, and that’s okay. If that happens, try to set yourself up for success: eat a good breakfast, drink tea or coffee, and do a quick stretch or two to help wake up your mind and body.

2. Join an Organization Right Away

I know it can feel overwhelming at first, new place, new people, new responsibilities, but joining a club or organization early on is one of the best moves you can make. This is the time to meet people with common interests. Most students form their closest friendships at the beginning of the year, and while it's totally possible to make new friends later, it’s definitely easier early on when everyone’s looking for their group.

3. Go to Class Even If Attendance Isn’t Required

Wow... I really wish I’d known this one. It feels like a win when you realize a boring lecture doesn’t take attendance, but the freedom is deceiving. Skip once, and it’s becomes addictive. Suddenly, you’re facing your first exam with zero idea what’s going on.

Even if your professor posts the slides online, it’s not the same. I told myself I’d just take notes from them later... either I didn’t, or I did and retained nothing. Hold yourself to a high standard. You’re paying thousands of dollars to be here, so show up.

4. Don’t Buy Textbooks Right Away

Textbooks are wildly expensive. I’ve only needed about 2 out of the 20 that were “required” for my classes, and I still aced each class.

Wait until after the first few class sessions to see if your professor actually uses the book. Sometimes you can share with a friend, find a PDF, or just get by without it altogether.

5. Comparison Kills Joy so Focus on Your Own Path

You’re going to meet so many new people with different backgrounds, experiences, and stories. It can be easy to start comparing your grades, your major, your clothes, your body, your social life, well everything.

But trust me, this mindset is toxic. Everyone is trying to highlight their strengths and hide their struggles. Focus on what you bring to the table. You’re capable, unique, and here for a reason. Own that.

6. Walk Your Schedule Before Classes Start

This one’s simple but important. Don’t just glance at the map. Actually go walk your schedule, and go inside the buildings to find your classrooms. Some buildings are confusing, and walking into the wrong lecture hall on your first day is more common than you think.

Also, be aware of how long it takes to get from one class to the next. A 20-minute walk between classes? You’ll want to know that ahead of time.

7. Everyone’s Looking for Friends — Make the First Move

Nobody’s done freshman year before, we’re all new here. Everyone is just as eager (and nervous) to make connections, so don’t be afraid to talk to people. A simple “Hey, I love your outfit” can turn into a whole conversation about your hometowns and what you're excited for in the future.

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Don’t let a little social anxiety stop you from building your college experience.

8. Always Go Out with People You Trust

Going out is a big part of college for many people and if that’s your scene, that’s totally valid. Just make sure you’re staying safe.

There’s safety in numbers, but it also matters who those numbers are. Go out with friends who will look out for you, and make sure you’re doing the same for them.

A few key things to keep in mind:

Leave with the people you came with.

Know your limits and don’t let others push past them.

Don’t take drinks from strangers.

Watch your drink at all times and keep track of how many you’ve had.

And if you’re actually feeling that 5'2 frat guy named Collin? Cool, but maybe get your friends home safe first and think it through clearly before making decisions. You’ve got all the time in the world!

I’ll definitely be sharing more about this in the future... but for now, just stay safe and look out for each other.

That’s it for today! College is an incredible experience full of growth, memories, and figuring yourself out. Don’t stress about doing it perfectly, just go in with an open mind, stay true to yourself, and enjoy the ride.

4/9

[survivingfreshmanyear]

College flies by. Cherish every moment, because freshman year is over before you know it!

You will hear people say that freshman year is the best year of their lives, and honestly, I can already see why. I can't believe I only have one more month of freshman year and would do ANYTHING to do it all over again one more time. But here is the thing. It is only going to be amazing if you make it that way. For me, second semester has been way better than the first, and the biggest reason for that is simple. I started saying yes to as much as I possibly could.

It is such a privilege to attend college, especially if you are at the University of South Carolina. If that is you, then you already know how lucky we are to be here. First semester had some great moments, but I often found myself staying in my room instead of going out. I would skip events if they involved long walks, meeting new people, or even just getting dressed. Looking back, the things that used to hold me back are now some of my favorite memories.

This semester, I changed my mindset. I started choosing to see the beauty in each moment and began approaching everything with a positive attitude. Even something as small as getting out of bed, picking out an outfit, and playing house music with friends can completely shift the energy of your day. Little things like running errands together often turn into the best memories.

Take advantage of what your school has to offer. I have tried almost every retail swipe location on campus with friends, and there is always something new to explore. Just the other day, we found a small garden near our dorm where we now like to go relax, drink acai refreshers, and listen to music. That little spot has quickly become one of my favorite places. Do not waste too much time lying in bed when there is so much to try and enjoy.

That being said, rest is still important. Make sure you are getting a full night of sleep because that helps you stay present and appreciate every moment even more. Nothing is out of reach for you.

If social anxiety or fear of embarrassment is something you struggle with like I do, try asking yourself this. Who will remember this by senior year? Will it still be embarrassing then? The truth is, it almost never will be. And in the rare case that it is, you can remind yourself that this is freshman year. This is the one time in your life where doing silly or awkward things is completely okay, and sometimes even expected.

So say yes. Show up. Try the new thing. Laugh at the weird moments. Freshman year really is something special, but only if you let it be.

4/7

[survivingfreshmanyear]

Study smarter, not harder

Everybody has their own approach to studying, but I’m here to share the study methods that have personally helped me succeed. Here are my top 5 favorite study strategies!

#1 – Find a Good Spot & Eliminate Distractions This is my number one study tip. Studying in your dorm room is rarely a good idea, it’s your place of rest and full of distractions. Get creative with your study spots. Some of my favorite places around UofSC are the Graduate Hotel, the 4th floor of TC, Wired Cafe, and even the top of Gambrell. Choose somewhere you actually enjoy being. Personally, I love studying at the Graduate or outdoors because if I’m in a place I like, I’m more likely to maintain that positive attitude. The key takeaway: never study in your room. I also like to power off my phone while studying because it’s my biggest distraction. Some people can study with friends, but I don’t recommend it unless you and your friends have exceptional self-control. Ultimately, find a comfortable and happy environment, and make it a no-phone zone to help focus and build good habits.

#2 – Whiteboard Like a Teacher I absolutely love using a whiteboard to study. Whether it’s rephrasing my notes or practicing math problems, the whiteboard lets me engage with the material in a different way. What makes it so effective is that I pretend I’m teaching the material as I write. I speak out loud for each step and definition as though I have a classroom in front of me. This method has never failed me and helps me retain information by reinforcing what I’ve learned.

#3 – Set Goals & Have a Reward System I’m like a dog, nothing motivates me more than a good treat for reaching a goal. I set specific goals for myself, like studying for 45 minutes without touching my phone, finishing an assignment, or getting a rough draft of an essay done. Hopefully, you’re using a planner to keep track of tasks, and the simple satisfaction of crossing something off the list is rewarding in itself. But other reward ideas could include an iced coffee, a quick Netflix break, a favorite snack, or even a night out. In college, the only person who’s going to motivate you is you, so make it fun!

#4 – Self-Testing & Flashcards As quizzes and exams approach, I find self-testing to be one of the most effective ways to focus my study efforts. Quizlet’s test option is super helpful for this, and if your professors offer practice tests, use them! Flashcards are another great tool for testing yourself and identifying areas where you need more focus.

#5 – Color-Coding & Mnemonics This ties into my note-taking method, but highlighting and underlining really help solidify information in my mind. I connect different concepts to specific colors to make them easier to remember. One of my favorite strategies is using mnemonics. These are memory aids that make recalling information easier by creating associations like songs, acronyms, rhymes, or visual images. For example, using the acronym "PEMDAS" to remember the order of operations in math, or creating a song to recall historical events, are both powerful mnemonic techniques. They make studying more engaging and improve retention.

4/2

[survivingfreshmanyear]

Exam Day Essentials: What to Do Before, During, and After

I love exam day. My favorite days of the week are the ones when I have an exam, and trust me, they can be your favorite too. The difference a positive attitude can make in your academics is incredible, so keep that in mind as I walk you through a typical exam day.

Starting with the week before the exam, make sure you’re using the study habits that work best for you (I’ll share my personal favorites in an upcoming post). Aim to study every day for at least 20 minutes, depending on how confident you feel about the material. Now we’re getting closer to exam day, it’s the night before. Should you stay up until 2 a.m. cramming every last bit of information? Absolutely not. This will do more harm than good. There is nothing more important than a good night’s sleep before an exam. If you’ve procrastinated, then procrastinate a little more and wake up early the next morning. But whatever you do, do NOT stay up past your bedtime. I recommend doing a thorough nighttime routine: take a shower, avoid eating sugar before bed, and get to sleep.

On exam day, I like to wake up a little earlier than usual and either go to the gym, take a walk, or do some yoga. As soon as you wake up your body, your mind will follow. I also like to have a cup of green tea for a small boost of caffeine. A non-sugary breakfast is key, sugar causes brain fog, so I recommend avoiding refined sugars the day before and the day of your exam.

Now, here’s the real key to a good exam score: dress well, test well. Do your hair, do your makeup, pick a cute outfit. Just feel comfortable and look your best. I’m not sure about the science behind it, but believe me, it works. Looking good boosts your confidence, and that confidence can make all the difference. Take that extra time in the morning to get ready and set yourself up for success.

I like to do about an hour of review if I’m feeling unsure about anything. This brings me to tip #2: Always walk into the test expecting to get an A. Confidence in your knowledge and capability is huge, especially if you’re a second-guessing type like me. Unless you’ve checked your answer and know it’s wrong, go with your gut and stick with your first choice.

Post-test, it’s important to acknowledge that what’s done is done. Stressing about how you did won’t help your mental health or your grade. Put that test behind you until you get it back. If you have the opportunity to get your test back, review your missed questions. Many classes have a cumulative final, so make sure you understand where you went wrong. Ask questions and work on perfecting anything you missed. I also recommend saving your tests to review later when finals roll around. This way, you’ll know what kind of questions to expect.

Good luck on your next test!! #dresswelltestwell

03/30

[survivingfreshmanyear]

Not every friendship will last, and that’s okay. Some people are just meant for a season.

This is very important to keep in mind, especially when meeting so many new people. I learned early on that clinging to the first people you meet in college might not be the best idea. This blog is all about mistakes I’ve made and how I’ve grown from them, so let’s get personal.

At the beginning of the year, it’s important to meet as many people as you can, but I naturally gravitated toward those who were physically closest, even though the friends I made didn’t share my morals, values, or sense of humor. I spent my free time and weekends with them, and while everyone around me raved about how fun going out was, I realized I hated it.

This was all during the first semester, and over break, I did a lot of thinking. I realized that I didn’t have to stay friends with people who weren’t adding value to my life- especially those I had nothing in common with. I’d been clinging to them so hard that there was no room to try meeting new people and experiencing new places. 

Once the second semester started, I made the decision to look for like-minded friends, and what do you know? My current best friends just fell into my lap. They have added so much to my life here at UofSC. I’ve found that I can have deep conversations with my new friends and not a day goes by where we aren't laughing together. I still see my first-semester friends and we’ll grab the occasional coffee, but that friendship was very much a first-semester thing that no longer served me.

The moral of the story is that people flow in and out of your life, and if something doesn’t feel right, don’t force it. It will likely never feel right, and you may be wasting time you could be spending with people who feel like you’ve known them your whole life from the very first interaction. You’ll meet SO many people in your freshman year, and it’s important to keep an open mind!

3/27

[survivingfreshmanyear]

My holy grail for a 4.0!

I just want to start off by saying, a 4.0 is not the expectation for freshman year. College throws a lot at you in so many different ways. That being said, a 4.0 is attainable, and let me tell you, seeing your name on the President’s List is an unmatched feeling. ;)

First off, please do not come into college with the outdated mindset of "C’s get degrees." That is really no way to live. Hold yourself to high expectations, especially if you’re considering post-bachelor’s education. There are plenty of strategies for succeeding academically, and I plan to dive into those later. But right now, let’s focus on my #1 tip:

You NEED a planner.

That’s her. The reason I’ve been able to maintain my grades. Of course, going to class and developing solid study habits are crucial, but my planner has been my main gal. Let’s get into exactly how to use it to stay on top of everything.

I’m a huge color-coding type of person, so I highlight everything in different colors by category. I use separate highlighters for my Pre-Law fraternity, Greek life, due dates, and exams. Not only does this keep me organized, but it also makes everything look cute.

Every Sunday, I sit down and plan out my entire week at the same time. This helps me stick to a routine and gives me a clear picture of what’s coming up. I write down each assignment, exam, and even schedule my dedicated library time for the week. I highly recommend utilizing a planner if you want to stay on track and keep those green bubbles coming.

I'll be back soon with more ways to achieve that 4.0!

3/26

[survivingfreshmanyear]

Hey! I’m so excited to share a little piece of my life with you. My name is Gracie Eubanks. I’m a freshman at the University of South Carolina, double majoring in psychology and political science. I’m also a proud member and chair of Alpha Xi Delta, and between classes, Greek life, and my social calendar, life has been quite busy. Freshman year has been a rollercoaster, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Coming to UofSC, I was definitely nervous. Would I make friends? Would I keep up with classes? But now, looking back at my freshman year so far, I can honestly say it’s been a success. I’ve kept my 4.0 GPA, made the best memories with my sisters, and met some of the most amazing people. I love going out, meeting new friends, and embracing everything college has to offer because freshman year only happens once.

This blog is my way of sharing the highs, the lessons, and all the little moments that make college unforgettable. I also plan to give advice about the things that I learned the hard way. Whether you’re a fellow freshman, a high school senior getting ready for college, or just here for the ride, I hope you’ll find something here that inspires, entertains, or at least makes you feel a little less alone in this crazy college journey.

Stay tuned! 💙🐔 #SpursUp