Well, it's officially here! My parents have left, and I am on my own at the most fabulous college in the world. Before my parents left, I had two days full of orientation and a lot of time to learn about my new home. Here are 10 of the most important things I learned throughout the process.

1. Don't try to run to the rec center.

Just wait until you get there. It's too hot to try to run there because you will get exhausted before your workout even starts.

2. Pace yourself with food.

Our school has some pretty fantastic food. Watch out or you'll gain the freshman 15 within the first few days...

3. The smoothie bar is the best thing that has ever happened to this place.

Get in line early because even though there were only about 100 of us on campus, we still didn't have enough time for everybody to get a smoothie.

4. Staying on the topic of smoothies, I highly recommend spinach, mango, raspberry, vanilla yogurt and apple juice.

Just try it, I swear.

5. Don't blow all your money on Starbucks.

A Venti White Chocolate Mocha is over $5!

6. If you wander around at night, it is still warm.

Don't go try to walk around campus in a sweatshirt even at 10 p.m. You will still sweat, I promise.

7. Don't have a meltdown over your major or your classes.

It will all work out. Your orientation leaders are fantastic, and they will help you calm your fears. (Huge shout out to my fantastic OL's!)

8. If you find a small lizard in your dorm bathroom, don't leave it there.

You might just walk in to take a shower in the morning, and it jumps out at you while you aren't clothed. (OK, this probably won't happen to you, but still. That was not fun.)

9. Your parents will cry.

They are emotional about sending you away, and they don't know what to do with those emotions.

10. Most importantly, it is your job to dry those tears and comfort them.

You can show them that you are ready for this journey and they have set you up for success. Be a good kid and hug your parents a little tighter as they leave. They definitely need it.

I've only been on campus for a few days, and it already feels like home. I can't wait to start this new journey and drink lots of free smoothies! Go Frogs!