Going into college for your first time is a stressful thing; take advantage of the opportunity while you have it. Have fun with your friends, study hard, and make good grades. These are the years you will never get back, keep these things in mind while your freshman year flies by.

1. You don't need as much stuff as you thought

You know those plastic plates and cups you bought? You absolutely don't need those. I made the mistake of buying some from the dollar store and I never used them once. Luckily, I wasted $2 instead of $20. Wait until you move into an apartment or house to buy these things!

Everyone says this and I never believed it until I experienced it, you do not need winter clothes in the warm weather and vice versa. Dorm rooms are SMALL; they don't lie to you when they say this. You won't have room for everything you own, so you'll probably want to leave some stuff at home. I am a shoe-aholic; I ended up taking half of my clothes and "necessities" home during my fall break.

2. Absolutely nobody cares what you wear to class

I spent most of my days going to class in t-shirts and shorts or sweatpants and a sweatshirt. Dress comfortably; trust me, everyone usually prefers comfort over looks.

3. Do not expect to be BFFs with your roomie

You guys will fight; it might take a few months, but it will happen. Living in a small place with one other person can result in conflicts, mostly dumb ones, and uncomfortable conversations.

The #1 rule for this though is: do NOT let little petty things ruin your friendship. Forgive and forget.

4. Ladies - you probably expected this, but you will meet several guys

I will warn you right now.

Do not fall for every guy you meet and be careful about becoming "cuffed" right away. It will be tempting, but remember my last article; wait for the guy you deserve.

5. You will actually utilize the library

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MO STATE'S LIBRARY STARBUCKS. It will save you on those nights you have to stay up super late. I didn't think I would actually use the library, but it is a savior. You can find a quiet place, a noisy place, computers, books(obviously), and many hidden places that most people don't know about.

6. Thursday nights are crucial

Try not to schedule anything for Thursday nights; I did, and I experienced real F.O.M.O. There are all sorts of things that are going on on Thursday nights; there's something that will float anyone's boat. Take advantage of the events and opportunities on campus and in your college town.

7. 8ams or 10ams - you will be tired no matter what

I never scheduled 8ams and I am so grateful for that. However, I did have 10ams and I was still extremely tired; I cannot imagine what 8ams feel like.

Unless you like to wake up early, I wouldn't recommend taking anything before 11 am.

8. Your professors have a lot to do with your success in class

Yes, you will have to study hard; do not let your grades drop. Scholarships, opportunities, and your future will be taken away from you if you don't make your grades count. Your grades are on you, but choosing your professor is crucial. Every professor is different; your professor has control over how many points go into your grades. Your professor may or may not provide you with extra credit opportunities; take advantage of every possible opportunity for extra credit. Lastly, do anything you can to get to know your professor; it makes a difference.

Make college count and focus on your success as a student and a person. Most importantly, have lots of fun!