Dear Freshman,

Your first year of college is tough. You've packed up your whole life and relocated it to a place where you barely know anyone and you have totally new responsibilities. By the end of your senior year of high school, you were so ready to move out, go to college, and be an adult. But now that school is really kicking your butt, you just want to go home where your mom is and where you don't have to pay for your own food. Believe me, I understand. Even as a junior in college, sometimes I still feel that way too.

The important thing to remember is that this is a great opportunity that not everyone in the world is given. You are blessed to have gotten this far.

College is made so that you can further your knowledge and become a professional in the fast-paced world that we live in. It is almost impossible to get a job without a degree these days. But don't let that frighten you. Although we all may think that we must choose what career we want to pursue for the rest of our days right now, we don't. Your first and even your second year of college is about finding yourself and figuring out what you're good at and what makes you happy. That is how you choose your career path.

An important lesson I have learned is that if your heart's not in it, you won't give it your all. You can find success in any career field you choose, even if it isn't where the money is at. So do what makes you happy, learn more about it and make a career out of that.

Start to get serious about your life. This is your opportunity to make your own choices, and believe me, every choice you make will affect your future. I'm not saying you can't have fun and go to parties every now and again but once you start skipping class because of that, you need to reevaluate yourself. College is supposed to be fun but getting an education is important.

I have learned that it's good to become involved. This way, you will have things to do outside of class, meet new friends, and possibly even add a position to your resume. The support system that you'll have will make college seem worth-while. You may even find your home-away-from-home. This is not to say you have to join a sorority or a fraternity. Though those are great outlets for some, there are other clubs and activities throughout campus that will cater to your interests. If you are struggling when it comes to school work, there are opportunities for study groups and becoming involved with those as well.

However, don't overdo it. You may have been class president, Beta club member, homecoming queen, cheerleader, student council member, and so on in high school, but a college workload is different. Don't take on so much that you feel like you're drowning. I have done this and it never turns out well.

If you're starting to wonder if this whole "college thing" is for you, my advice is don't give up. You are so close to achieving your goals. You can do this if you try and take it seriously. College is such a rewarding experience, have faith and believe in yourself.

Love,

Someone who knows