Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Top 10 Dumb Things Freshmen Say


by Dave Reuss

This is a list compiled by MSU juniors and seniors of dumb things freshmen say. It is far from exhaustive and does not apply to everyone. These are just trends we see on a daily basis that make us think, “Wow! We were once freshmen too.” We’ve all been there and do not blame you for your stupidity. Most of us grew out of it and we sincerely believe you will do the same. But for now, embrace the ending of your first semester of college and try not to yell these things too often.

                                           

10. Does it get like, REALLY cold here?
This question still astounds me… why yes, it does get really cold. We’re in the Rocky Mountains; of course it gets really cold.

9. Exactly how “mandatory” are these “mandatory floor meetings”?
Nothing shouts “independent college student” like a room full of uncomfortable and confused people being told that smoking out of the dorm windows is not acceptable behavior. The truth is, these meetings could not be less mandatory, it’s just the RA’s desperate attempt to retain some sort of power and superiority.

8. My 8am class isn’t even that important.
This rationalization comes around the third week of school. You started out an ambitious and well-to-do college student. But as the late nights add up, that early morning class just doesn’t hold the same weight it used to. Sure, you could walk to class in your sweats through the cold wind, or you could curl up in your cozy blankets and nice warm pillow. Do the right thing.

7. Dude, I got so drunk last weekend.
Now, I’m not judging your lifestyle—if that’s what you want to do, I don’t really care. However, you’re probably 18 years old. The people who are worth impressing on campus honestly don’t care about your underage, drunken escapades.

6. Let’s make popcorn!
This is a dangerous statement in dorm-room life. Making popcorn at midnight, going to talk to your friend—thus forgetting about the popping process—will make you the most hated person, especially if the smoke enveloping your room causes the fire alarm to go off.

5. Look at the cool lanyards we get for free!
 Oh yes, you know which one I’m talking about—the one you get from ResLife when you first move in. Yes, this may be a good way to not lose your key and lock yourself out over and over, but you’re labeling yourself as freshman. Invest in a new one; it’ll be the best $4.95 you spend in a long time.

                                     

4. I don’t need to study.
Appreciate the good days, because believe me, they will change. But hey, you may actually be super smart, who am I to be the judge of that? Don’t be that person though that brags about your intellect whether it’s legitimate or feigned. Learning to study effectively now will help you when you reach your 35-page capstone research project.

3. There’s nothing to do.
This one makes me cringe. There’s so much to do here all year round and you don’t even have to be 21. Hiking, biking, camping, knitting, watching a Bobcats game, joining a club, and stargazing on a golf course are all acceptable activities. Make friends, go do something, and don’t be afraid to feel a little ridiculous. We are in college after all—it’s allowed. For more info on what to do and what's going on, check out the digital edition.  

2. I don’t ski.
Ski Town USA (AKA Bozeman) is one of the most renowned places for outdoor recreation in the entire world. Surrounded by mountains, Bozeman is prime ski/snowboard territory. You mean to tell me you live here and never get outside? I get that some people just don’t like it, have had bad experiences, or are broke. However, if you don’t ski because you’re scared or have “better things to do,” you should be ashamed to say you live here.

1. YOLO!
Ok, have you ever heard anyone over the age of 20 say this seriously? Probably not. “You Only Live Once” is probably the most annoying acronym since “JK.” Please, I’m begging you! Don’t be that annoying freshman.