The start of a new school year is rapidly approaching and for many of you that means the start of a new chapter of life as you begin your first year of college. There are usually several emotions of excitement and anticipation accompanied with feelings of fear and nervousness as you enter in a world filled with unknowns.

Let me first start off by telling you, as I am sure so many others have, that these feelings are normal and they may even last a few weeks or months after beginning school, but also know that college is what you make it. You can choose to allow these feelings of fear and homesickness to dictate your social life, or you can choose to make the most of these years. The following list contains tips on how to have the best freshman year possible.

1. Get involved

Whether you are living on campus or not, take time to get involved with something you are passionate about. Join an organization or three, it may seem intimidating at first, but this is one of those places where you will meet your forever friends that everybody talks about.

2. Don't be afraid to be yourself

As cliché as it is to say this is one of the biggest lessons I learned my freshman year. College, and especially freshman year, is a time of figuring out who you are and most importantly who you want to be. No matter what that looks like, don’t be afraid to embrace it.

3. Embrace your singleness

Many people go into college with the expectation of meeting the perfect guy or girl and beginning a relationship within the first few months of school. Although this happens for some, let me tell you that this is not the reality for most people and several students actually face breakups within their first year. Don’t try to force a relationship because you think you can’t go through college being alone. With the help of some great friends you can still have the time of your life.

4. Go out and explore

The image of college for a significant number of people is watching a lot of Netflix and sleeping profusely. While this is definitely necessary at certain times, don’t let this be the way you remember spending your time. Chances are your campus and the area surrounding it has a lot to do. Go out and explore. Take risks. Create adventures. You never know what you might find.

5. Enjoy every moment

It’s true that these next few years of college will fly by. It’s crazy to think that I am already preparing to start my Sophomore year. So take time to enjoy the moment you’re in; it could be a crazy night with friends, laughing with your roommates, or a spring break trip with an organization. Whatever it is, soak up that time and remember that these are going to be memories that you will never forget.