As I begin my final year at college, I have learned several things along the way. I'd much rather freshmen learn the easy way, from my experiences, rather than the hard way.
1. Let your mom unpack.
On move in day let your mom unpack your stuff and organize it. This is your mom letting you go, and you can always rearrange once she is gone.
2. Take advantage of any free food you can get.
Groceries are expensive, so when a family member offers to take you out to eat, do it. If there is an event on campus that promises free food, go even if you're not interested, food is food.
3. Then again, don't eat just anything.
The freshman fifteen is very real. Be aware of how much and just what you eat because you will regret eating that fourth slice of pizza an hour later.
4. Call home.
Calling home can mean calling your parents, your best friend, or anyone from your hometown. Keep in touch with the people who helped shape you. Your parents will want to hear from you to make sure you're not dead as well.
5. Make new friends.
This may be a given, but if you are, or were, shy like me, then don't be afraid to go off on your own to meet new people. College is a great time to learn about other people's cultures and lives. You never know, you might just make a friend for life.
6. Be nice to your roommate.
When coming into college you may not know who your roommate is and that can cause all kinds of feelings. No matter if you like them or not, be nice and respect their space, you do have to live with them for a year.
7. Make sure you have a way to sleep.
College hallways can be loud. Whether you use ear plugs or headphones make sure you have a way to shut out any unwanted noises so you can get a good night's sleep.
8. Make friends with your housekeeper.
There is no one better to befriend than your dorm's housekeeper. She (or he) will make sure that you always have toilet paper and cleaning supplies for when you inevitably spill your coffee.
9. Keep up with your homework.
I know this is a given, but if you don't make good habits when starting college, then you never will and you will forget important assignments when they pop up. Also, you don't want to retake (aka pay for) that class more than necessary.
