It's the Monday after. The storm has passed and we must learn how to read again.

The day we all love has slipped away from us. Derby Day. High Point University's pride and joy. The day that sets the partying pace for the rest of the semester.

And, if the rest of the semester is anything like Saturday, we're all going to die of liver failure.

But the day has come and gone for the better and now we start actually becoming human beings. I know college seems like one big party and you just wish you could continue this weekend -- but you can't.

You have to work hard to play hard.

Your classes are about to get more difficult and life is going to become pumping overpriced Starbucks drinks into your veins in the silent third floor of Smith Library.

I'm just giving you the facts.

I would do anything to play with my friends all day but once you sit back and look at the bigger picture, this isn't summer camp.

As much as people say, "it's the country club," you came here for an education. A damn good education.

This school wasn't voted "Number 1 Best Regional College in the South" for the fourth consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report, or voted "Best Return on Investment" by Affordable Colleges Online for shits and giggles. They don't just throw out awards like that. Take advantage of the opportunity you have been given, to study and better yourself in a place that looks like it is out of a movie scene every single day.

So look back on the beloved Derby Day and remember her often -- but don't turn it into a lifestyle. Your parents would be so disappointed in you if they knew you went to Liberty for half-off wine every Tuesday instead of going to meet with your community service club or studying for that big exam.

So go out with your friends, have a great time, join an organization, make mistakes, but put your education first. No one looks back and remembers the night they got plenty of sleep... but no one wants to look back and regret not taking advantage of their education.

Balance.