Coming into college, there are many terrifying things you might have in mind. Such as, not fitting in with strangers, mean professors, finally having freedom in the world, which can be terrifying if you've never had it before, or even the fear of your mommy not being there when you are sick or just plain missing her warm hugs that always seemed to make everything 'just fine'... However, I am here to tell you though some of those fears are very real (I missed my dog more than my mother, but that's just me), but there are more things at college that will seem scary at first, but I recommend you should always embrace.

Scary part #1: Stranger danger. There will be SO many strangers you've never met and that can be bone shaking if you have social anxiety. But, college is the place where you will evolve into the social butterfly you truly are, because anyone and everyone will speak to you at some point. So, put on your big adult boots and say hello! You never know whose day you might make, or who will make yours! Staying in your little shell only makes the fear worse! Everyone has their people in college too, so don't be afraid to fit in.

Scary part #2: Professors who will do anything and everything to scare you utterly (for lack of a better word) s***less of failing their class. "This is a uniquely difficult course," will roll off of many of their tongues daily. If you pay attention in class and study like a responsible college student, you'll pass just fine! (Speaking from experience, my freshman year a professor scared me so bad I ended up failing because I let it get to me, don't do it to yourself!)

Scary part #3: FREEDOM!!!!!! Embrace this time in your life. When you graduate, bills will lock you up from those freedoms. Being 'that' college kid that stays in their room afraid of the freedoms their young world offers, won't ever be able to feel the warm breeze of freedom. In college, your mother doesn't call you at 3:00 in the morning telling you to get your tush home, you're free to roam all night if you want to. I personally recommend geocaching all night, but that's just my personal opinion, the explanation is for another time, *wink*.

Scary part # 4: Missing your mommy. Dude.. Your mom will be missing you so much she will answer the phone after one ring at ANY time of the night. Bawling your eyes out or just saying "Sup mom, miss your cooking', she will not hesitate to pick up, trust me. Missing her will be hard at times, but remember the above fear, that freedom from her nagging is just as sweet.

Finally, Scary part #5, I didn't mention this one above because this one is my favorite: Scared of being a failure. Look at you. Bright and shiny new penny you. A freshman maybe, maybe even a senior and still scared. Don't be. So many people can relate to you, all of your troubles, all of your freak out moments, everything. We've all been there, and thats one thing we relate on altogether the most. We made it here. We're in college. We're already successful, we're in college! Whether you're at a university, tech school or community college, you're making something of yourself. We, everyone you meet, are proud of your perseverance to better yourself. We, the world, fistbump you man, or girl, for being better than just a fry cook or waitress. You, are truly amazing and WILL succeed, just focus on the prize, being your diploma, and chase it like the wind bullseye, you'll catch it in no time!

Signed,

A college student, just like you.