As a junior in college, I look back at freshman me and shake my head. I cannot believe to dumb mistakes I made, or thought. Some had long-term effects and others were just a one-time hiccup. Take my advice. Do as I say, not as I do.

1) Majors are not set in stone

This is a huge misconception. The first three semesters are so generic, typically, when it comes to classes. Don't be afraid to change your major if you have a calling to something else.

2) Athletics are not more important than academics

This goes for anything, honestly. Do not compromise your grades for athletics. Unless you think you can go to the Olympic trials or to the professionals, school work comes first. Be mature, have a conversation with your coach and explain your situation. Eight out of ten times they will understand and respect it.

3) Cramming is not effective

Alright, high schoolers listen up, college is time where you are training to be a professional. Cramming benefits no one. The information does not go to long-term memory, and is lost within hours of studying it. No one wants to hire someone who cannot effectively use the information they were tested on.

4) Going out is not mandatory

College is not all about going out and partying. Yes, it can be fun, but if it becomes habitual then it starts to get boring. Instead, reward yourself with an occasional night out after you had a hard week or aced that test you spent weeks studying for.

5) Studying and doing homework does not make you lame

Following up with no. 4. Staying in and doing homework or studying should not be looked down upon because those are the people who will remember their notes come lecture Monday morning. I know there's a saying that goes, "No one remembers the nights they got a lot of sleep." Yeah, I may not remember that, but I do remember that test I aced!!

6) Avoid dining room food on the weekend

Like the PLAGUE. It is not good, and the choices are limited. Instead, order Jimmy John's or opt for some quick microwaveable meals.

7) Do not compromise form for speed

This is an athletic statement, but can be applied academically. As an athlete, I have had my fair share of injuries, and a lot came from improper form. Practice does not make perfect, it makes permanent, so get into good habits right from the start and you will see positive results.

8) MAKE BOMB PLAYLISTS

FOR EVERYTHING. This will help you pump out that paper or crush that workout or even fold that laundry that has been slowly taking over your closet.