As my freshman year draws to a close, I can’t help but look back on everything that has happened–everything that has changed–since move-in day back in August. I have grown a lot as an individual. I am more independent, more mature, more out-going… and I have accumulated a great deal of new knowledge.

I wish I had known during those first few days as a freshman all that I do now. It would’ve made the transition a whole lot easier. And so, if you’re a high school senior preparing for college, here are a few things you may learn, as I did, during your first year:

You miss home all the time.

Therefore, going home when you feel you need to is okay.

The friends you meet in college are really one of a kind.

Living with your friends is quite the bonding experience. Within a few weeks, you'll know each other so well, it'll feel as though you've been friends a lifetime.

High school boys were so not worth it.

I'm still debating whether or not college boys are.

Studying cannot wait until the last minute.

Neither can a ten-page essay.

EVERYBODY hates group projects.

So, you'll all suffer together.

Living in a dorm forces you to give up a lot of privacy.

Unless you're really comfortable with your roommate, stripping down in your room is no longer an option.

Being surrounded by people 24/7 can be draining.

Wearing jeans to class is always a mistake.

Especially if it's cold, snowing, raining, or you're going to have a long day.

Getting out of bed for an 8 a.m. is impossible (and so, I have no idea how I was always punctual in high school, considering first period began at 7:30).

Groceries cost a lot of money.

And so, budgeting is essential.

Loft beds SUCK.

If you don't mind having the designated sofa-bed, choose the bottom bunk.

Your dorm room gets messy ten times faster than your bedroom at home.

Seeing a dog on campus is always exciting.

Laundry needs to be done every week.

Trust me, your hamper can only handle so much clothes.

Umbrellas are absolutely necessary.

…so are rain boots.

…and snow boots.

Going to gym every week really does pay off.

It's free so you might as well take advantage of it.

A good night sleep is the best feeling in the world.

...mostly because they are rare.

Go exploring every chance you get.

Having (or knowing someone who has) a car on campus is a blessing.

Getting a college education is something to be thankful for.

Not everyone intends to get a job after college.

Talk to these people. They have very interesting stories.

Your GPA does not define you.

It's undeniably important, but you are not a number.

Getting involved is always a good idea.

Drinking every Friday and Saturday is a bad idea.

This is the leading cause of the dreaded Freshman Fifteen.

It takes a lot of dedication and effort to maintain a healthy diet in college.

No one really cares how you dress, how you look, or how you act. Be yourself.

Keep in touch with your high school friends.

You're going to miss them.

Keep in contact with your high school teachers.

You're going to miss them, too.

College really is an amazing time in your life.

I can't wait to see what the next three years have in store for me.