With the first semester of college coming to a close, I think it is a great time to reflect on what I have learned these past six months. I have already experienced so much growth, I cannot imagine the lessons I will learn the next three and a half years.

1. It's okay to be homesick

You are on your own for the first time. There will be days when you feel completely alone and want so badly to be in the comfort of your own home. Whoever tells you they don't miss their mom's hugs and their dad's corny jokes are lying.

2. You are not going to get along with everyone

Not everyone will understand your sense of humor or like the same music you do. While there are people who won't understand you or take the time to get to know you, there are also the people you meet who you cannot remember how you could live without them six months ago.

3. You will not get A's on everything you do

College courses are hard. Not only are they harder than high school, it's also the first time navigating how to balance school work with a social life on your own. There will be classes you do not understand and teachers you do not get along with, but one or two bad grades will not define the rest of your life.

4. Don't forget your home team

The home team are those people in your life who you look forward to seeing on breaks. The people you call late at night when you are sad or after you ace a test. No matter how far away they are, they will always be there for you. Never forget the amazing support system you have at home, reminding you that you are never alone.

5. It's okay to stand up for yourself

Gaining my voice is the most important thing that has happened to me during my first semster of college. Not everyone is going to be nice to you, but learning that you should never apologize for being your authentic self is an important lesson I acquired. Beyonce doesn't apologize for being herself, why should you?

6. Sometimes you need to be alone

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. There will be days when you just want to lay in bed and tune out the world, and that's okay.

7. School is important, but so are the experiences outside of the classroom

Yes, we come to college for the purpose of gaining an education. But the times when you go to dinner with your friends even though you don't have money to spend or you take a break to go ice skating right before finals are the things you will remember years from now.

8. Napping is inevitable

College is tiring. Sometimes you just need to nap. Those who make fun of you for napping are not worth your time. Cut them off.

9. Change is a good thing

College is a big transition. It is hard to come to terms with the idea that your life will never be the same. But this change will allow you to grow into a better person through different experiences and encounters.