Going away to college has many firsts that sometimes we fail to remember until we are reminded. Of course some of them are different for other people depending on where they go to college. Here are 11 “Firsts” we remember from starting college:

1.) Spending your first night away from home

Whether this takes place at an orientation, or the night of move-in, the first night away from home can be tough. It is perfectly okay to already be homesick and make a phone call home to check in on things!

2.) Taking your first exam

No matter what year you are in, the first exam of each class is always the scariest. Usually no one knows how the exams are for the class and being nervous is very normal. Study hard, study long, and be prepared for the worst.

3.) Having your first meal alone

Not everyone in your friend circle is available to eat every meal together. Busy schedules sometimes makes for needing to have a few meals alone. Enjoy the peace and quiet during your meal.

4.) The first friend you make

Of course, when you begin college, you probably won’t be friends with everyone that you make conversation with. The first person that you make a connection with always creates a lasting impression on you.

5.) Needing to make your first “adult” phone call

Whether it be your doctor, a school office, or anywhere else official, you definitely miss being home when you have to make your first real adult phone call.

6.) Second-hand experiencing your first back-home crisis

As a generation, we are thankful for phones and other forms of long distance communication. No matter what the situation is, you still wish that you were able to be around for your family or home issues.

7.) Your first movie night

Put your favorite pajamas on, grab your popcorn, and get ready for a night full of laughs and tears with the girls. That is, unless your movie nights are paired with alone time.

8.) First club meeting

It is always encouraged by the college for you to join clubs and be involved on campus. Whether or not you stick with the first club you attend a meeting for, it is always a good experience to try new things. Even if you did not like it, you at least learned that it wasn’t for you!

9.) Getting a first visit from family

Lunch dates, exploring your campus, or giving your family tours is always fun. It’s fun to show them your home away from and it’s always nice to see them if you miss them!

10.) Staying up late for your first extreme home/study session

We all remember the first night before an exam. By the time that we were able to go to bed, our eyes burned when we shut them.

11.) Coming back home for the first time

Coming home can be nice, until you start to feel homesick to come back to school.

Take some time to remember and enjoy each and every “first,” because the last college experiences will be here before you know it!