Dear Melody,

You’re about to enter what will be one of the greatest four year periods in your life. You’re not going to do anything you regret, but maybe if you knew some things it would make your life easier.

You’re going to meet a lot of great people here. Some that you will never see again and some who you see often, but don’t know their names. Don’t be afraid to make the first move and say hi because relationships are key to going through college. You met a good friend while you were lost on a bus trying to get to Meijer Mania, and that’s from making the first move. Think of all of the opportunities you have... I know you’re going to try to meet a lot of people as possible because there are SO MANY people. It’s easy to create many shallow acquaintances, but the important part is to create deep relationships because you can help each other when needed and have someone who you can confide in.

Try to befriend more people who are older because they know about what classes to take and how things work around here.I know you’re going to discount joining a professional fraternity because you don’t think you’re cool enough and there’s the money issue, but think about it because it could be a great experience. You’ll never know unless you try because it’s a great way to meet people who have similar interests (business) and form deep relationships. But if you don’t, it’s definitely not the end of the world because it’s not the only way to meet friends.

Regarding the future, I know freshman year is overwhelming and a lot of work. You’re going to realize that you’re far from being the smartest one here. You have kids around you who have travelled the world, went to “prestigious” high schools, started their own business. Don’t compare yourself to them because it’s a waste of time and instead spend time bettering yourself. Because guess what? Everybody is going through that same realization of not being the smartest kid in the room.

Now, you do a lot of right when it comes to school by going to office hours, finding a study buddy, and getting involved. You’re also good at managing your time by using an agenda and not overstretching yourself, so I don’t think there’s anything different you can do there. It’s definitely easier to plan your four years ahead when it comes to scheduling. Now I don’t expect you to have it all together at all, but it ultimately helps because you won’t have to take “unnecessary” classes. Take a freshmen seminar if you get a chance because you hear good things about them when it’s too late to take one.

Try to get a job so you can get some more tangible experience on your resume. I don’t know if you can balance all of that freshmen year, but it doesn’t hurt to try. Try to do something better than taking classes during the summer. Try even harder to get some sort of part time job. Any experience helps you professionally.

Go study abroad sooner! Don’t worry about the money because there is a ton of aid available. The sooner you go, the longer your friendships with these people will be. Most of all people you might not have met otherwise. Also, it’s preparing you for the future because you’re getting global and diverse experiences. It’s definitely one of the best experiences you’ve had in college. You’re going to learn a lot about yourself and other cultures which is important when you start internships.

For the years after freshmen year (I’m not going to tell you if you get into Ross or not… whatever happens, happens), you’re going to do everything you can to get what you want. It’s not going to be easy, but believe in yourself when it comes to academics, jobs, everything because if you don’t, no one else will. All those times that you doubt yourself, I’m telling you that you can do it.

P.S. Get football tickets your sophomore year. It’s the last time Michigan will play Notre Dame…

Best,

Melody Ng