As my little brother leaves high school and is about to be on his own in college, I think about some things everyone should know.

1. You are not going to stay friends with everyone you made in high school and that's okay.

People grow up and apart, it's life. That doesn't say anything about you as a person. Sometimes people are just not meant to stay in your life, cliche I know. But it's the truth.

2. Be yourself

It's hard, I know, especially when you're thrown into the mix with a bunch of new people and all you want to do is fit in. But, trust me, there's nothing better than being yourself. College is a big place and being yourself assures that you fall in place with the right people. Nothing is worse than being a few years down the line and realizing that you don't recognize yourself because you've been trying to be something you're not in order to keep friends that don't really know the true you.

3. Get involved

Do it. It sounds cliche and totally obvious. It sounds ridiculous, but please just do it! Getting involved, whether it be in a club or in Greek life or just volunteer work around campus? Well, it helps give your days meaning. You don't want to look back at college and say: "Well I went to a couple classes and partied" (though, that should be a part of the experience too, just not all of it). Allow yourself to do something great, to be involved in something bigger than yourself, you won't regret the feeling it gives you.

4. Make everyday count

Do not live with the could have, should have, would haves in life, especially not in college. For most, this is the first real chance you have to be on your own, to owe nothing to anyone but yourself. Take advantage of that. Allow yourself to go out of your comfort zone a little bit. Allow yourself to go out on that Wednesday night. Allow yourself to take that fun class in ceramics you've always wanted to take because you can. Don't spend all your days locked in your room studying (but please do study when needed, no one wants to flunk) or being antisocial, go out and do things and meet people. Life is a balancing act and college teaches you that.

5. College is a privilege not a right

Do not take this experience for granted, many people do not have the luxury of having it. Learn without abandon because, really, this is the only time that it will be your job. Go to class and find something you're passionate about. Listen to your professor because they have tidbits of wisdom. But, most of all? Appreciate that you're there.