If I Knew These 13 Things Before College, Freshman Year Would've Been So Much Easier

I learned these things the hard way my first year of college so you don't have to.

1. Everyone's scared. It's okay.

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Making new friends? SCARY. Saying hi to people? TERRIFYING. Just keep in mind that you're not the only person who feels that way, and that really cool person you keep seeing around campus might just be waiting for you to say hi first.

2. If your room stinks, you probably need to do laundry.

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...Or clean out the fridge, or take out the trash, and on and on and on. Basically, don't let your chores sneak up on you, because hell hath no fury like a college student's B.O.

3. Get used to using a planner.

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I never had to write down assignments in high school, but in college, between the numerous meetings, extra-tough exams, study sessions, and even remembering to feed yourself, it gets to be too much to remember, very fast.

4. GO. TO. CLASS.

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For some, this is self-explanatory, but once you get the sweet sweet freedom provided to you by college, it's so easy to let yourself skip. But you WILL start to notice in your grades if you haven't been going to class, and your professors will take note too.

5. Also...GO. TO. OFFICE. HOURS.

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One of my professors once described empty office hours as "throwing a party and no one shows up." They want to help you learn — that's why they signed up for this job! Plus, getting to know your professor can make for a great reference down the line.

6. You don't have to be besties with your roommate...

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...But you should at least talk to them. Set up good expectations for living together, but don't be too bummed if you can't picture them in your wedding in five years.

7. Get to know your academic advisor, and don't be afraid to ask them for help.

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Scheduling can be scary, and your academic advisor probably has a lot of students to keep track of, so it's never a bad idea to reach out in advance.

8. Eating alone in a dining hall is normal.

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Everyone needs alone time, and I promise no one's paying that much attention anyway. Enjoy your lunch in peace, babe.

9. Go outside every once in a while.

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Take a walk, buy a hammock, whatever...It's too easy to lock yourself inside your room all day, and the sunshine can help you clear your mind.

10. You don't have to leave home behind.

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Don't let anyone tell you it's impossible to stay in touch with your high school friends — they're just a text, snap, or phone call away.

11. It's okay if you don't make *lifelong besties* right away.

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Be patient, and be YOURSELF — it's the number one way to avoid fake friends. You'll find your people eventually.

12. Join a club.

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...But not EVERY club. Find a couple of groups that let you socialize and keep up with the things you love, and you can always add more if you have time in your schedule!

13. And, most importantly: you got this, kid.

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College can be tough, but you're tougher. Now go get 'em, tiger.