As I head into my Senior year.... scary I know I have been reflecting on my college life and experience! I began to realize that coming in as a new student from a different state, knowing no one is a bit overwhelming. So I decided to share with you all from a seniors perspective what I wish I knew as first year:

1. To be yourself- there is nothing more important than coming in as you and only you. Your high school days might have been amazing or absolutely terrible but I promise college is completely different and you will find "your people" and the only way to do that is to be yourself.

2. Give all people a chance- Find people that are not in your major or in your hall. Try meeting people from all over; even upperclassmen. Talk to people and step out of your comfort zone it'll work.

3. Keep your door open (obviously not when you're sleeping)- This was one of the best advice I got once I got to college, it shows you are open minded and willing to have people stop over. This is an immediate way to make instant friends for sure and I highly recommend it.

4. Being aware of your finances- you.are.an.adult.now Figure out how to budget your money and become responsible so you are not calling Mom and Dad every week to reload your bank account. Circumstances will come but do not just spend money on food when you have the dining hall or on clothes you cannot fit in your overfilled closet. (Trust me I learned the hard way and Mom and Dad were not happy)

5. YOU time- You will make friends probably lots of them too but it is important to find time for just you to either debrief or figure out things. If you have work to do or just want to catch up on Netflix do it! Your friends will always be there and there will always be things on campus to do so you will not be missing out.

These are just a few of the things I wish I knew coming into College and now share to the students as I begin my last and final year! And always remember to Breathe... it'll get better!