1. Don't put off that counseling appointment you've been meaning to make. Mental health is a lot more important than schoolwork. Make yourself your top priority. Sometimes negative energy comes at the strangest of times, don't ignore it, it always helps to talk to someone who will listen and understand you. Don't hold it in, let it out through something you love- go write, go listen to music, go read a book, go talk to a friend, or go talk to a doctor. Learn that there are services available to you, you do not need to be alone in this fight.

2. Don't go back to who hurt you. Even if it's been weeks and he seems like he has changed, don't do it. He'll go right back to where it was that got you into the mess in the first place. Second time heartbreak is even worse. There's no such thing as third time's the charm in situations like these.

3. As much as you think you need to bring fifteen sweatshirts because "What if it gets cold at night?" you really don't need that many sweatshirts. Also, if you're thinking about bringing the shoes you bought sophomore year of high school that you have never worn- don't because odds are you won't wear them at college if you haven't worn them in the past two years. I am not saying pack minimally (Lord knows I over pack on the daily), just be reasonable with what you bring and be mindful of the space you are given in your dorm.

4. If you wake up for class and just simply cannot bring yourself to get out of bed, stay in it. Sleep some more if you really need it. Go to class late, or don't go at all. It is a matter of putting yourself first. Just make sure you aren't skipping class every day, make sure you are able to get caught up. Once every few weeks is fine.

5. It is sad, but some people simply won't like you. They may have a reason, or may not, but it is not your job to satisfy someone else's needs if you are happy with who you are.

6. Schedule study times. It is easy to get caught up in the thrill of college life may it be parties, movie nights, or sleepovers. Make sure you are prepared for the exam coming up at the end of the week, there will be plenty more nights of fun in the future.

7. Be yourself. This is your opportunity to start fresh, where you will meet new people and try new things. Most people at college have the same goals as you. The atmosphere is very different and I found that people are so much more accepting. Be the person that you have always wished to be- be kind, be loving, be open.

8. Make friends, get involved. You have no idea how many people there are out there who are just as cool as you. Meet a person that just so happens to become your best friend.

9. Understand that it is okay to let go. High school best friends, boyfriends, girlfriends; you can't help but love them dearly, but distance is never easy. If it takes too much work and energy from you to uphold those relationships, let them go. If you spend more time being nostalgic and reminiscing about your past, there will be no time to create a future for yourself. I'm not saying never talk to them again, but be open for more relationships to come into your life.

10. Be careful who you trust. Don't trust too easily. People do not always have the pure intent that you do. Protect yourself when necessary and know when to say no. No means no and if someone can't accept that, remove that toxic person from your life because you come first.

11. Have FUN! Go to the activity fair and join a fencing club, join a cooking club, or join an event committee. Get involved! It is the easiest way to meet people and learn new things. Who knows, you may have a niche for making crème brûlée. (Side note: that was extremely difficult to find the correct accents.)

12. Eat good food! While college cafeteria food is definitely a step up from high school, sometimes it isn't the best. Take the occasional trip out to dinner at a restaurant with your friends, a change of scenery is always nice.

13. Take some alone time for yourself. Go for a walk around campus, put your headphones in, and tune out. Enjoy being around yourself, you may find it difficult to be around people 24/7. Sometimes you just need some space, no matter how much you adore your roommate.

14. Most importantly, shoot for the stars. Make sure you are doing what you love and nothing less. If you need a sign to change your path and start pursuing what you truly love, THIS IS IT! Be proud to do what your heart tells you to do, you were given this life to make the most of it.

I am sure I left out something, but I hope you get the idea. I wish you the best of luck in your first year, or any year of college for that matter!

Much love, A Student Who is Currently Procrastinating Packing For College While Writing This, Angellica