For many high school seniors all throughout the country, graduation is right around the corner. In about four months, your days as a "child" will be over and you will be thrown into the real world. A considerable amount of you will be continuing your education at college. Just one year ago, I was in the same situation. I was stressed and filled with anxiety about my future. I am here to reassure you that everything will be OK. The hardest part is almost over. Between filling out forms for financial aid, housing forms, and actually applying to the college itself, the whole experience is beyond overwhelming. Before you know it, you will be graduating and August will roll around.

The whole thought of moving away from home and actually going to college was so unreal to me. Reality didn't slap me until the actual day when I had to move into my dorm room. I was in shock in those moments, but also filled with excitement about the future. Don't follow my example. Make sure that you do everything that you should and want to do before you leave before August comes around. Spend time with your friends, hug your family a little harder, and cherish the little moments.

The thought of college is very scary and having to leave everything that you once knew behind is going to be one of the toughest things ever. Leaving is literally like starting your whole entire life over. Luckily, the scary feeling doesn't last forever. After a few nights, your dorm will become your new "home" and your new friends will become family. Once you are all settled in, it is smooth sailing until classes are in full swing.

From my experience, there are two things that you should not do unless it is necessary. The first is to never take an 8:00 a.m. class. You might think that because you did it in high school that you will be able to do it in college. Sadly, it doesn't work like that at all. The second thing that you should try to avoid is taking 18 credits (or whatever a full credit load is at your own college). I am currently doing 18 credits and I am swamped with work and various assignments.

Along with doing well in your classes, everyone should try to join an extracurricular activity, whether it is in the form of a club or fraternity/sorority. By joining these groups, you will be able to meet so many people and make new friends, while expanding your network at the same time. College is all about meeting new people and finding your passion. Don't worry about knowing what you want your major to be! You should definitely explore your options to see what you enjoy and what you would love to do in the future.

When I first arrived, I thought that it was going to be all work and no fun at all. In order to survive and stay mentally stable, I recommend finding fun ways to release stress and ti have a good time. "Work hard, play hard," right? If you don't find ways to get out of your room and have a wonderful time, then I promise that you will regret it in the future.

Lastly, remember why you are in college and don't lose track of your goals and aspirations. There will be plenty of times when you will feel discouraged and want to stop, but carry on. In the end, it will be worth it and you will be proud of your accomplishments! So, for all of you incoming freshmen: make sure that you have fun, but also get your education and follow your dreams!