College is great. I mean, it's basically a semester-long sleepover with your best friends—except for finals—we'll get to that later. You get to eat, sleep, work, play and do laundry (or not) whenever you want. You're finally an adult, which means that you're expected to take care of yourself by yourself. Crazy right? Anyway, here are 11 things that last (my first) semester has taught me:

1. The importance of eating right

The initial stress of college may have you taking on a "treat yo' self" attitude, but moderation is really important in order to stay healthy—both physically and mentally. But hey, a little ice cream after dinner never killed anyone.

2. Spacing out my studying

It's Sunday. You have an economics test Tuesday and a biology test on Thursday, but your friends want to go see a movie. What do you do? Keeping up with the syllabus is important because it helps you stay on top of the workload and gives you more time for the things that actually matter. Plus, it'll make studying for final so much easier.

3. Making friends again

For four years you've been with basically the same group (or groups) of friends, and now you're at a huge place where you don't know anyone and have to learn how to, well, make friends again. But don't worry! This is a great opportunity to improve your social skills and maybe even reinvent yourself.

4. Staying active

Going to the gym and staying active is absolutely vital in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Plus, working out regularly means you can allow yourself to splurge just a bit more often.

5. Keeping my family in the loop

While you may be having a great time far away from home, it's good to keep in touch with your family and call them every one in a while. Don't get me wrong; being independent is great, but shooting your mom that one text might just make her day.

6. Getting involved on campus

No doubt your classes could be occupying the majority of your time, but college is more than just that. Did you play volleyball in high school? Try out for the club team! Think an organization sounds interesting, but don't know much about it? Go to its GIM, or general information meeting, to learn more. Want to participate in a club or activity, but your school doesn't offer it? Start your own!

7. Off-campus exploring

Doing stuff on campus is great, but it's also cool to check out what your town or city has to offer. Take a friend (or more) and go explore!

8. Having fun

A key aspect of college for many, going to parties is a great way to have fun and meet other people. If that's not your thing, join an intramural sport for some casual fun, or go out for some food and a movie. The choice is yours!

9. Balance

Keeping up with classes, laundry and maybe even a job may be difficult when you're also juggling a sport, three clubs, and a social life. But that's part of college, and it'll definitely help you prepare for adult life. Prioritize and ask for help when you need it!

10. Relaxing

Seriously, just chill. Staying in your dorm and watching some Netflix or YouTube (alone) is a great way to decompress and mentally prepare for the day ahead.

11. Everyone goes through the tough times!

They say college is the best time of your life, but that doesn't mean that it is always easy. Keep your head up and know that you are not alone. You can do it!