Miami University has a long standing tradition that occurs every year on the Thursday before Spring Break... Green Beer Day. The moment you get back to campus second semester, the advertising begins. Instagram accounts flood your feed showcasing this year’s shirt designs, buzz around school starts and everyone turns to Amazon Prime to find the perfect outfit.

Last year, when I was a freshman, I was so excited for this day: I had no class, my friends were coming to my room at midnight to get ready and the festivities would begin. However, the day did not go exactly as I had planned. Here is a survival guide for every freshman’s first Green Beer Day…

1. Take a nap & drink a Red Bull.

This is going to be a long day, so you’ll want to make sure you are prepared. Last year I took what constitutes as a nap until midnight, chugged an energy drink and welcomed my friends to my room. I promise, this is a crucial step.

2. Pace yourself.

The festivities last all morning and day, so be safe and smart. Do no go too crazy, you will regret it.

3. Make memories.

Have fun!! This is a Miami tradition you will only experience four times, so have fun with your friends, take lots of pictures and dance it out.

4. Take another nap.

SLEEP SLEEP SLEEP. Do not feel like you can’t take a nap because everyone does. You will be so grumpy the whole day if you don’t rest.

5. Eat.

Do not forget to eat during the day. Bring a snack in your bag, go to the dining hall, do what you have to do, but make sure you eat.

6. Don’t stay in one place.

Branch out and go to different houses. This day is so much more fun when you are spontaneous! Some of my favorite memories from this day are going to houses I’d never been to before and making new friends.

7. It is OK if you can’t go out.

Although this is such a fun day, do not feel like you have to skip class to be able to participate. Class comes first at college, so don’t drive yourself crazy if you class schedule does not allow for you to go out on Green Beer Day.

The most important thing to remember is to stay safe, eat and take a nap. But also have so much fun, wear a crazy outfit and make some memories... after all, it only comes around once a year!