I learned a lot at Bowling Green State University and I wish someone would have been there to tell me certain things before coming to campus. There are many things about BGSU that makes it wonderful and this campus is full of mysterious things you'll probably never know. One of the most important pieces of advice I can give to incoming freshmen is to buy a bubble umbrella. The regular umbrella that your parents gave you will not last in BG, not after you experience the 40+ winds that come with the downpours or even the small amounts amount rain you will have in a week. I could write a book on advice for first years, transfers and just people that are visiting the university, but I don't have time for that.

1. You're going to love hockey

If you don't love hockey before coming to BG then you definitely will by the end of the year.

2. Having meal plan is a blessing

But if you're a coffee drinker, like me, be careful because your money could dwindle fast

3. Girls, leave your purse at home/in your dorm

Trust me you won't need it on campus. Use a lanyard or a coin purse with a ID place.

4. Get a book bag

It'll save your life, time, and you can put your lanyard in there.

5. Explore downtown

Downtown BG is such a cute area and has so much to offer. Go stop at the little shops and eat at the local restaurants. Grab some Polleyes on your way back to campus! Also, the Black Swamp Fest is a huge event that happens every year downtown. This year the event starts September 8th and goes all weekend. NOTE: It interferes with the first home game!

6. Regular umbrellas are not your friend

They are your worse enemy when it rains in BG. Get a bubble umbrella.

7. The wind is crazy here

Just give it time, you'll see. Avoid walking between buildings when it's 40+ mph wind, just saying!

8. Join an organization

Literally join any organization that you are remotely interested in for your first semester and if you don’t like it after 4 months then don't rejoin in the spring.

9. Study in the union or library

Don't stay cooped up in your room, it's not healthy. Plus, you'll probably never open a book or write anything down there, especially if you have a TV.

10. SIC SIC is not scary

I LOVE SIC SIC. They are the schools spirit squad, not to be confused with the mascots. SIC SIC is made up of 6 students and this tradition dates back to 1946.

11. Talk to strangers

This is the one time in your life where it's actually okay to talk to strangers because you kind of have to. And how else are you going to make friends?

12. Interact with the mascots

Freddie and Frieda are the best mascots and they're super friendly! Interact with them! Enjoy your time with them! Take a photo together!

13. Partake in the falcon flight line

Arrive at football games SUPER early to get the first few rows in the student section to get on the field!

14. Walk around campus alone

But not at night. You'll love what you see and you'll need the alone time

15. The learning commons is a resource you should use

The commons are there for you when you need it. This place can become your best friend. You can get with study groups, receive help in any subject, use the labs and of course check out books.

16. Step outside your comfort zone

I mean you kind of already did this if you're living on campus but do something you wouldn't normally do. Stepping outside of your zone builds character!

17. This university will change your life