So, here it is — the moment you've been waiting for all summer (whether it be with excitement or with a little bit of fear — or maybe both). It's finally time for you to make your way to which ever college you have proudly declared your new home. Here is what I wish I would have known going into my freshman year of college.

1. Make friends everywhere you go. Talk to people. I wasted so much of my time in high school sticking with the same crowd day in and day out. Although it was hard to leave them when it came time to go off to college, it ended up being the best thing that ever happened to me. It forced me to make new friendships and get out of my comfort zone. If you are someone that considers yourself to be "shy," who knows, college may just turn you into an extrovert like it did for me.

2. A good way to meet people is to go to campus activities — find someplace to get involved. There are multiple ministries on campus that would be overjoyed to have you come and hangout with them. BSU, the Wesley, RUF or even go to Greek recruitment and meet people that way. Even if Greek-life isn't your thing, there is even a Christian sorority (Sigma Phi Lambda) on campus that is non-Panhellenic that could also be a place you could thrive.

3. It's OK to miss home. Coming to college is a big adjustment. It's okay to miss home and it's okay to go home often. Call your mom as you're walking to class - it will make her day (and probably yours, too)

4. On move-in day, let your parents help you as much as they want to help you. Trust me, they do it because they want to do it. This is a big day for you, but it's also a big day for them, too. (Plus, I bet you can get at least one more good meal out of it.)

5. No matter how good of friends you and your roommate may be — they will still do things that annoy you. "Whyyyyyy does she have four alarms every morning?" "Seriously. Toothpaste in the sink again?" "She ate my cookies. Again." Trust me, y'all will have your moments. But it's to be expected when you are living in such a tiny place with another person. Hear me on this though, there is nothing better than those late night moments of laughter and great conversation.

6. Grades and tests in college are way different than in high school. Do not expect to make an A on every test you take. College is not high school, but it's okay. You are not stupid, and you are not any less of a good student. You are just being taught different material in a way you've never been taught before.

7. At some point, you are going to have to kill a bug on your own. You can do this. I believe in you.

8. Don't buy your books beforehand. Wait until you've been to that class and you've heard the professor say what you need. Also, if you have enough time, avoid the bookstore and buy your books online. valorebooks.com is a great resource to use.

9. Don't forget the reason why you're in college. There are going to be so many new and exciting things happening all around you. You know how a puppy acts when it's surrounded by brand new people? Yeah, that will be how you'll want to act, too. There is nothing wrong at all with being super involved with campus activities and having fun, please do those things. But remember to dedicate efficient time to your studies also. You need to find a well balance of work and play.

10. Keep your foundation built on Christ. Find someway to be fed spiritually. For most of you, this will be the first time that you will be taking your faith into your own hands without your parents watching over your shoulder and reminding you to go to church or say your prayers. This will be a crucial time in your walk with the Lord. Be intentional in spending time alone with Him and finding friends that have the same mindset as you.