I was you.

I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed. I know what it's like to have so many things going on that you feel completely overwhelmed and incapable of doing everything right. I know what it's like to feel like everything is spinning out of control and that there seems to be no way to stop it.

But take heart.

It may not get easier, but it does get better. Remember why you're here. Remember how you got here. And remember where you're going. You've come so far, so don't let a step back become a hasty retreat to the starting line. Keep moving forward, and in time, after a few stumbles and retracing your steps, you'll get there.

College is hard. It's not for everyone. It is demanding academically, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. You've been challenged, and you will continue to be challenged, but don't let that stop you from moving on. Let those challenges push you forward, not backward.

You don't have to look like you've got it all together. Trust me, no one does. Some days may be easier than others, but we all have those days where the sun just doesn't seem to come up. Be genuine. Be authentic. And don't let your fears keep you from being real with yourself.

Don't be overwhelmed by all the opportunities you have because of where you are in life. Or, rather, be overwhelmed, and then realize that you don't have to do everything.

Your time is precious. Spend it wisely.

Make your future self proud when you look back on these college years and remember. Make it a time of growing, learning, changing, and becoming.

It may be easy to put your academic studies on the backburner, but don't. Your studies, as boring and tedious as they may seem or actually be, are part of what will help you succeed in life. But don't forget about people. Continue to build relationships are surround yourself with people who will encourage you, tell you the hard truths, and walk with you through it all.

Not all stress is bad. Some look at stress and see it as an unsurpassable barrier to peace. Others see it as a motivation to success.

It's okay to go to bed early now and then. Sleep is amazing when you get enough of it (but not too much). Naps are also beautiful things.

You will make mistakes. You will have regrets. But sometimes the quickest way to the right path means walking back to the fork in the road where you took the wrong turn.

This is not all there is. Life goes on, and time heals, grows, and changes. Don't let one small thing keep you from fighting for what's worth it.