DO:

Meet as many people as you possibly can in the first week and throughout the rest of your freshman year. It’s a new place full of new people and new opportunities; get to know as many people as you possibly can. Keep your door open and say hello to anyone that passes by or hang out in the lobby of your building. Some of the best people are met in the most unexpected places.

DON’T:

Sit in your room all of the time. Yes, it is good to stay in sometimes and get things done or even just to have some time to yourself but don’t seclude yourself all of the time. The only people I have ever heard complain about not enjoying college were the ones that didn’t get out of their rooms.

DO:

Get involved! Do as many things on campus as you can whether it is playing intramural sports, Greek life, music, or any of the various clubs that your school offers; just get involved. You will meet some incredible people and get to be a part of some really awesome experiences.

DON’T:

Over do it. This goes for many things. Don’t get too caught up in what’s going on this Saturday that you neglect your school work. Although your keg stand record may be impressive, future employers are only concerned with your grades. Keep them up. Also, while it is okay to skip class occasionally don’t do it all the time, especially if your professors have a strict absence policy.

DO:

Ask questions and get to know your professors. While this might be harder to do on a larger campus it is still important to ask questions before you fall behind. Hit up your professor’s office hours if you need to or get a tutor. As previously stated, your grades are important and you’re only hurting yourself if you fall behind.

DON’T:

Forget to contact your parents every once in a while. Believe me, I understand how exciting it is to be on your own but your parents will worry about you. Just let them know you’re still alive every once in a while, they’ll appreciate it.

DO:

Live it up. These truly are the best four years and they will go by so quickly. Make the most of the time that you have here because it’ll all be gone before you know it. Take a lot of pictures, do a lot of crazy (and maybe not so smart) things, and enjoy every minute of it. This is where you find out who you really are.