Hostel life is considered one of the best time of anybody life. This is the time when one is exposed to the real world after being sheltered by the parents for almost 17-18 years. This is the time when one is free and without anybody’s supervision. When moving away from home, I have seen mixed emotions among guys/gals moving away from the family. Those who were very much attached/dependent on the family, are scared while who had constant fight with their parents due to generation gap are very happy because they will get their freedom.
I am going to mention few tips which I think might help those who are moving away from home to lead a carefree, independent life.
1) Be Flexible
This is the time when you will be exposed to people with various background, culture and age group. Each one has their own view point and experience to justify their answer or action. This is very different from home because at home, you are surrounded by the people you knew for ages and who understands you but in a hostel one hardly knows you. So try to be flexible in your views in judging the person and their actions.
2) Leave Your EGO
At the age of 17-18 years, it is but normal that each one has his/her own ego. Because of this ego, people always gets into trouble, fight and even mess up their lives. This ego is the root of problems with the person whom you are sharing a room or be your project partner. Just let go your ego and you will find how easy life gets. You take the initiative to let go things and will be surprised how others respond back. REMEMBER: There is fine line between EGO and SELF RESPECT. Never ever compromise, when it comes to Self Respect.
3) Choose Wisely
This is the time when you will be making new friends. Choose wisely. If you get involved into wrong company then you will just ruin your bright future. Friends are the most important during this hostel life because they are going to be with you when you in trouble, sick or whenever you need help. To get friends be friend first. :)
4) Learn To Share
At home, you had your own privacy and things. Nobody use to touch it or take it. In hostel life its different. Learn to share your things with others. This will lead to less complications with your project partners or your roommates.
5) Help
Always help your roommate, project partner or other friends. Share your knowledge, experience and help them when it comes to studying and finishing projects. Sharing knowledge helps. It helps you to grow. You will be surprised to find how much knowledge other person is having of which you have idea.
6) Call Your Parents
Always call your parents and keep them posted what’s going on in your life. Take their opinion on which you have doubts. After taking your decisions, inform them so that they know that you are now capable of handling your life. In this way, they will feel much more relaxed and happy.
7) Learn To Relax
This is very important. You should know how to relax as hostel life is going to be very hectic. You will be doing all the things what your parents used to do for you. You have added responsibility on your shoulders. So take time off from your studying and try to relax. Go and play with friends. Go out and enjoy. Do what you fell like doing and keep your mind free from all tensions. If you don’t do that, it will affect your studies.
8) Study
I know I have not done this myself but telling you guys to do it. But still would suggest, study regularly. Today’s market has become very competitive and each one of you will be facing lot of competition when looking out for jobs. So get good grades so that you can have edge on other people.
9) Know Yourself
Each one has his/her own capacity in handling things. Some need more time to understand things while others can do it in few hours. Know yourself and plan it accordingly. If you are week in certain things, devote more time on that than on other things.
10) Eat/Sleep Well
You might get fed up of eating hostel canteen food or may not get good sleep because your roommate is loud. But try to find out ways to deal with it. Go out and eat other stuff. Talk with your roommate and explain your situation.
These are the basic things I think one should know when he/she is going out and facing a life he or she has not seen before.
All The Best
-Rahul