The beginning of your college career is the beginning of a whole new adventure in your acedemic journey. It's nerve wracking and exciting. It's scary and fun. I've officially put my first full week in here at the University of Michigan Dearborn, and I've taken in quite a lot in my first seven days here.

1. The first day isn't like you imagined.

No, you're most likely not going to walk in to a mean old professor who assigns the first four chapters on the first night. I mean, if you're super unfortunate... maybe. In most classes, however, that's not the case. Professors typically call you out and make you give your oh so favorite fact about what makes you interesting, and most of the class period is spent going over the syllabus for the course. It's awkward because people are unfamiliar with each other, but it's not like in the movies... I promise!

2.GET INVOLVED.

Don't just sit in your room and do nothing but study. I mean, studying is good. Study lots, keep up on everything, but stay involved. Student council played a huge part in my life all throughout high school, so my first week here I joined the Student Activities Board, a group that puts on events on and off campus all year long. In an entirely new community of people, it's important to stay connected.

3. Wanting to go home is normal.

You're going to miss home. A LOT. You're going to get homesick and miss your friends, your family, and your dog's sloppy kisses. That doesn't make you a baby! It makes you normal. College is change from high school, and moving out is a huge change after 18 years.

4. Don't let people walk all over you.

If your roommates want to do a sharing food situation, that's fine and dandy, but make sure you establish that. Don't let people just eat everything you own or have and take all of your things. It gets expensive and super ridiculous.

5. ASK QUESTIONS.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Whether it be on a problem in Pre-Calc or how to get to the science building. It can be tough to ask random people for help sometimes, but it's worth it. Usually people are really nice, and lead you right where you need to be.

6. Organization is key.

In high school, I was never the most organized. I kind of did things as I went and in some cases got lucky that everything worked out. College has been a different story, thank God! The organization lords blessed me finally! Have a planner and use it! Know when everything is due, and get things done in the order that they need to be.

7. Have fun.

College is a time to take the next step in your education, but it's a time to have fun as well. Focus and get your work done, so that you can venture out and make friends. It's a struggle not knowing anyone, so try to connect with people!