Everything you learn as a girl at JMU

Say goodbye to any Converse you wear to a frat

Being a girl at JMU is nothing short of an adventure. While it’s always fun, there are a few things you will need to learn at some point before graduation. If you make it through all four years without eventually learning, kudos to you.

Never wear shoes you like to a frat party

Some of my friends at other colleges have told me about how they attend relatively tame frat parties in clean houses, but that’s not the case at JMU. Unless you’re okay with letting your nicest shoes meet mud puddles, beer puddles and possibly even vomit puddles, don’t wear them. 

A lot of girls actually try for class

It’s okay to roll out of bed and go straight to class, but you might do better if you feel somewhat confident. Going to JMU comes with constantly being surrounded by girls in the most stylish of outfits and full faces of makeup. 

Having said that, you’ll learn to do it in record time

Which brings me to number three. Putting in just enough effort in ten minutes or less becomes second nature. 

Sometimes you’re going to need a break

JMU students are the epitome of “work hard, play hard.” It’s okay to be a “grandma” every now and then. Although no one will judge you for staying in frequently, you should live it up while it’s still acceptable. Either way, you won’t be alone.

BYOT (bring your own tampons)

Bring tampons with you to class, because if there is a dispenser in the bathroom, it most likely doesn’t work. 

Campus wasn’t made for heels

If you wear heels on campus, be sure to pack a pair of comfy shoes as well. Heels may look nice, but they’re far from fun to wear when you’re walking up and down mountains all day. 

You’ll need to dress for multiple seasons in one day

Dress in layers. When you wake up and leave for your morning classes, you will want a thick jacket and gloves. By the time you’re going to get lunch, you’ll be hit by the harsh sun from all angles, sweating, and wishing you had on a t-shirt.

It gets windy

Wind is not your friend. Check the weather before you decide to wear a flowy shirt or dress.

Parking is the biggest bitch on campus

JMU parking is practically the Hunger Games. If getting ready quickly has not yet become second nature, you’ll need to wake up earlier if you want to find a parking spot. Otherwise, you won’t be making it to class. 

You don’t have to do Greek life

If you’re anything like me, you may not see yourself in a sorority. When I first came to JMU and realized that I didn’t want to join Greek life, I was worried that I wouldn’t make friends if I didn’t rush. Luckily, that wasn’t the case. At some schools, you must absolutely go Greek if you want a social life, but at JMU, you’ll be just fine if it’s not your thing. Besides, there are plenty of clubs and organizations to choose from. Finding other ways to get involved makes it easier to find your niche.

The women’s health clinic rocks

The women’s health clinic is fast, helpful, and everyone who works there is friendly. Don’t be afraid to take a trip to the clinic if needed because you won’t feel anything less than comfortable while there. 

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