Freshmen year was a time to make mistakes and grow from them. It was a rollercoaster ride to say the least. There were ups and there were downs, over and over again. Halfway through, I often thought, “Man, this was a mistake” or “Why did I decide to ride this ride?” But by the time I reached the end, it left me wanting more and now I can’t wait to ride the college rollercoaster again this coming August.

Throughout the year I learned many things, but most importantly I learned:

1. Don't procrastinate

Putting off studying is never the best answer. You will regret every second of cramming. Believe me, you do not want to be the person sitting outside of the classroom five minutes before a test trying to teach yourself four weeks worth of material you should’ve started reviewing two weeks prior.

2. Don’t expect to get an ‘A’ if you didn’t study

If you’re the type of person who can ace anything without even turning a page in your book, well, lucky you. As for the rest of us, this is never a good idea. Don’t be the cocky student who thinks they can get a 100 percent on an exam just because they were a straight ‘A’ student in high school. College is in a completely different ballpark than all of your high school classes. Take every test seriously and study. Your professors will only help you if you help yourself. Show that you care about your grades and classwork, and it will pay off tremendously.

3. Call home every chance you get

I can’t even begin to describe how important it is to call home as often as possible. You are your parents’ prize possession, and they want to know everything that is going on while you are embarking on this new journey. Let them be a part of your college experience, even if it is only through stories. Seeing your name pop up on their phone is heaven for them. They are the ones that support you no matter what, so brag to them about your accomplishments and laugh with them about your mishaps.

4. Give your pets as much love as possible while you are home

While away at college, you are going to miss your pets more than any people in your life. Give them as much attention as you can while you are still home. You will be begging for days when you could just sit at home petting your dog. Also, don’t be embarrassed to FaceTime your pets. It’s not weird; I do it all the time.

5. Try Everything

College opens the door to many new and exciting adventures. Try them all. Who knows, you may end up being the world’s best juggler or may learn that you love Vietnamese food more than all that pizza you keep downing.

6. Nap whenever you get the chance

“Adulting” is exhausting, to say the least. You are going to be worn out pretty often your first semester, so nap as often as you can. If you have an hour break between classes, seize the opportunity to take a quick catnap and recharge. You will feel refreshed and be in a better state of mind to take on the rest of your day.

7. Don't take a 7 a.m. class

You will most likely not go to your early morning classes. It may be the only time a specific class fits into your schedule, but you will have seven more semesters to cram it in some other time. Skipping classes will only hurt your GPA and make the rest of your college experience more difficult. Even a 9 a.m. is rough. Do yourself a favor, and don’t take anything before 10 in the morning.

8. Take a lot of pictures

You’re going to want to remember all those fun times you had with friends throughout your four years. A picture truly is worth a thousand words. Those selfies you take with your friends will mean so much to you in years to come. Plus, you know you’ll always have some great #TBT photos or embarrassing pictures to post for your friends’ birthdays.

9. Don't take that extra shot

When you’re at the bar, it’s OK to have fun and get a little wild. That’s what college is for, but that last shot is never necessary. It’s always the one you say “All right, just one more” to that leaves you feeling like you almost died the next morning and dreading your entire existence. Drinking with friends can be a great time, but is best when done in moderation. Trust me, you don’t want to be the friend that parents call “upchuck” for two weeks after your drunken stupor.

10. Cherish this time

Your first year is going to fly by. Cherish every second of it, but remember that even though you may be having the time of your life, this year shouldn’t be taken lightly. You can create a balance of study and fun. It is possible.