They’ve been there, done that.

At 20, we don’t really know who we are. We’re all just figuring it out. Luckily, we’re under the guidance of some really awesome people who’ve already (mostly) figured it out. Here’s what they would tell their 20-year-old selves — listen up.

“Wisdom can come in many forms. One of them is learning from the mistakes of others. Be disciplined now by exercising healthy eating and exercise habits. Your 40-year old self will thank you later.” — Allen Greene, Director of Athletics

“Practice time management every day. Good time management leads to setting priorities, focusing on what’s most important, getting the important things done, getting enough sleep and a host of other benefits.” — Dr. Leath, Former Auburn University President

“Do as God would have you do. I pay closer attention to those words now than I did back then.” — Bruce Pearl, Men’s Basketball Coach

“Sleep. I know you think you’re invincible right now and you can live without it, but one day you’ll have kids and then you won’t have a choice. Getting sufficient rest will boost your immune system and keep you mentally sharp. Plus, nothing good ever happens after 1 a.m. anyways.” — Macy Finck, Lecturer of Economics

“When I was 20 years old, I transferred to Auburn. While I had grown up around Auburn, I didn’t truly understand what it meant to be part of the Auburn Family. As a first-term transfer student in the fall of 1996, I tried out for things … and failed. I tried out for other things … and made it. My advice? Be bold — have a spirit that is not afraid! Be willing to go to an event by yourself. Strike up a conversation with that person sitting beside you in class. Visit your professor during their office hours. Interview for that organization. Put yourself out there, no matter how scary it may be.” — Melissa Dunn, Assistant Director of Orientation Programs

“Take chances, be fearless, and live life to the fullest.  The best things I have experienced all happened when I was willing to take a risk.” — Lady Cox, Assistant Vice President for Student Engagement

“What makes you happy? If you want to be happy in life, you need to focus on two things: relationship building and recreation. I know students are busy dealing with many urgent issues in their daily lives. For example, most students spend their time solving pressing problems or working on deadline-driven projects. However, although relationship building and recreation are not urgent, they are significant factors to make a good life in the end.” — Dr. Chon, Assistant Professor of Public Relations

I hope you’re feeling inspired to take these gems to heart and incorporate them into your college career and beyond. 

To all of the faculty and staff members that have enhanced my Auburn experience, thank you for showing me how to live out the Creed. I’m grateful for every piece of advice you’ve given me about hard work, a sound mind and sound body, and the human touch.

“And because Auburn men and women believe in these things, I believe in Auburn and love it.”

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Zoe L.