I started my first semester as a college kid this August, and I finished (thank God, honestly) this week after my last final.

To celebrate having survived the past 15 weeks, here are some things I learned along the way.

1. College isn’t all fun and games.

Back in my care-free high school days, I looked longingly at all the perfect Instagram posts of my college friends having fun on game days and at socials. Now done with my own first semester, I can attest that those pictures don’t show all the glorious late nights spent in the MLC drowning in work.

2. There are growing pains.

Someone once told me that the transition from high school to college is the hardest to make. As a new college student, you are torn from your routine of the past 18 years. It is difficult to become adjusted to a life away from the one you have always known.

3. Food is *always* available.

From Jit Joe’s in the MLC to the multitude of dining halls across campus, it is easy to avoid your responsibilities by snacking (a talent of mine). A 5-minute trip to Bolton can easily turn into a 2-hour debate over Game of Thrones with some friends.

4. Trips to Target are essential.

Escaping campus for a bit is a great way to relieve stress. Target is my personal place of refuge – something about wandering the white-tiled aisles soothes me, but it can be different for everyone.

5. Your people will find you.

Don’t stress too much about finding a tight-knit group of friends fast. The people who are meant to be in your life will find their way into it and stay.

6. Everyone knows something you don’t.

Whether it be the best way to get from Park Hall to the SLC in 15 minutes or the best place to eat downtown, be willing to hear out advice from anyone willing to give it to you.

7. Some friends are destined just for seasons.

This one is probably hardest to learn. Some of your closest friends in high school won’t be part of your closest circle in college. It has nothing to do with either of you despising the other, it’s just life taking you both in different directions.

8. Your bed at home is much better.

I followed the advice to stay at college for a whole month before going back home. I had forgotten how incredible it was to not sleep 8 inches from the ceiling.

9. Having perfect grades doesn’t (completely) matter.

In high school, maintaining straight A’s had greater weight than understanding of the course. In college, most professors place more stress on actually learning the material than achieving the highest score. What a great concept.

10. Leggings are a wardrobe staple.

Not a day goes by that I don’t wear leggings. Gone are the days of dressing up for school.

11. It’s okay to rest.

In college, there is always work to be done. Allow yourself to rest, even if you haven't finished absolutely everything. You deserve it.

College is a big adjustment, but I am thankful for the place on earth that is the University of Georgia. It has pushed me to become more alike the person I have always wanted to be.