5 Things To Remember In College

Aug. 8, 2019 Devin Pettiford

College, for those of you that choose to attend, this is an impactful marker for your transition into adulthood. During this time you will face challenges such as gaining a higher education, networking, learning who you are, and managing more responsibility.

At HOLLA!’s annual Collegiate Cookout, held July 28th, members of Anson County’s community gathered to send off its’ college-bound youth with wisdom, encouragement, and dorm supplies. Several speakers shared what they found students should remember throughout their college career.

Speak Good Over Your Life

Judge Sophia Crawford knows that words have power. Speaking positivity over your life, as well as your goals, is extremely impactful. Positive thinking and speaking have been shown to decrease stress and depression, two things that could cripple your ability to achieve your goals.

Choose The Company You Keep Wisely

Recent Johnson and Wales University Graduate, Aaliyah Crawford believes that “birds of a feather, flock together”. The people that you choose to surround yourself with will influence your life. Whether this influence is good or bad determines the person. You absorb the behaviors, beliefs, and habits of whom you are close. Even entertainment (podcasts, movies, social media, etc.) that you choose affects you. Since you are a sponge, make sure to surround yourself with the people and things that you aspire to be and have common objectives.

When You Know Better, You Do Better

Executive Director of Richmond County Tourism, Meghan Lambeth is inspired by Maya Angelou’s quote, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes mean you are learning. If you are learning, you are progressing and evolving into a better person.

Don’t Put Off Until Tomorrow What You Can Do Today

Benjamin Franklin’s famous quote is also cherished by Lambeth. Staying organized in college and life is essential for success. To do this, it is a necessity that you do not procrastinate. Delaying tasks only increases your troubles. Life already comes with its’ own set of pressures. Do yourself a favor by not nurturing the habit of avoidance.

Love Your Neighbor As You Love Yourself

Justice Ministration Founder, Curtis Gatewood lives by this bible verse from Mark 12:31. One of the key takeaways from this verse is that for you to love your neighbor, you have to first love yourself. Remember, this is not possible if in the place of love you instead have hate. Know that for you to be an agent of positive change in this world, you must have a healthy relationship with yourself.

These five things to remember will push you forward in your life not only in college but beyond! Enjoy this time, prioritize what is important, and don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help.

Thank You!

HOLLA! is VERY appreciative of the following contributors of the Collegiate Cookout. We could not have done it without you!

• Office Works of Chesterfield, SC
• Ted Ward
• Danielle Blount
• Badcock Furniture
• Brenda C Richardson
• Sylvia Jeter
• Tangula Diggs
• Leon Gatewood
• Johnie Pettiford
• Sophia Crawford
• Aaliyah Crawford
• Brandon Smith
• Meghan Lambeth
• Vancine Sturdivant
• Curtis Gatewood
• Jody Burr
• Darryl Edwards
• Zoha Ali
• Kishia Dunlap
• Kimberly Harrington