Exercise

Yes, it's work, but this is probably the first time in a long time that you aren't playing an organized sport. That's right, you aren't at practice two-three hours each day, and you are probably still consuming the same amount of calories as you did when you had a lax practice. BUT HAVE NO FEAR. Schools have fitness centers.

University of Alabama students have two amazing gyms at their disposal. A personal favorite of mine is the Rec Center. It boasts a rock wall, a pool, a cardio area, a weight area, and basketball courts. Spend an hour or two a couple times a week, and you'll still manage to keep your health up and the pounds down. In addition, it's a great way to clear your head and keep your stress level down.

Eating

THE DINING HALLS HERE ARE THE BOMB! There are also many amazing restaurants along the strip and the food trucks that line up along the streets are spectacular, BUT DON'T EAT EVERYTHING YOU WANT BECAUSE NO ONE IS HERE TO STOP YOU. Unlimited is nice because you never really need to worry about running out, but when you are eating a BBQ sandwich and pizza, you need to worry about the weight you can gain.

Walking

If you are a freshman from out of state, it is very likely you don't have a car. If you do, I am incredibly jealous. Before you get here, you don't realize that you literally walk everywhere. You are unintentionally working out. Bizarre, right? The great thing about campus is that everything is within walking distance. While taking the bus is an option, walking might be a better choice if you feel like skipping the gym and you've made too many trips to Insomnia Cookies.

Therapeutic

Trying to balance everything in college is stressful, I have been here for two weeks, and I always want to nap. But going to the gym gives me such a great feeling afterward that I always feel so much better than I did before I got there. Exercise helps rid your body of toxins and releases endorphins that make you happy.