College is an incredible opportunity to come out of your shell and reinvent yourself. It is also a time for self-discovery and exploration. Within the magic of living on your own and moving away from home, there are many things you should be aware of so that you can adjust quickly to your new college lifestyle.

You May Not Be Best Friends With Your Roommate, And That’s Okay

If you decided to do random selection for your roommate, your school tries to pick the best match for you, but sometimes it just doesn’t work out. That’s okay, not everyone you meet is going to like you, and you’re not going to like everyone you meet. In this situation, just try to be nice to them through the awkward first weeks and then maybe you will become best friends after a few months.

There’s A Good Possibility You Will Change Your Major

And there is no shame in doing so. First year is a year of exploration; you are not expected to know what you are going to do with the rest of your life. Even if you have decided that a certain major is what you want, it might not be what you think it is after a few courses, and that is okay too. As long as you are doing what makes you happy, college and learning will be more enjoyable than learning about something you hate. You may have many different interests, so take exploratory classes, and find that subject you want to pursue.

College Is Not High School

This seems fairly obvious; however, maybe you never had to study in high school, maybe you were one of the top students in your class. That doesn't mean that college will be as easy as high school. Learn study tips and stick to a schedule, especially if you are in a club, sport, or Greek life. You’ll need to be organized and kept on track. You really do need a planner, because you will forget that assignment you swore you wouldn’t forget. Trust me, buy a planner.

Manage Your Time

Trying to plan time for social life and studying is harder for some people than others. If you struggle with time management, make a schedule and stick to it. Studying takes up a lot of time, but you don’t want to be stuck in the library or your room. Plan time for studying, because that is extremely important, but don’t let that get in the way of enjoying your friends.

Get an Amazon Prime Account

Textbooks are expensive. If you buy from your school bookstore, they will be even more expensive. Get a Prime Account, not only do you get two day free shipping but you also get the option to rent books for incredibly less than the price from your school bookstore. On the topic of textbooks, wait until your first day of classes to see if you actually need the book before committing to it.

It’s Better to Ask Questions than Be Confused

Your professors are there to see you succeed. They may be intimidating or you may be embarrassed to ask a question, but professors love helping students, that is what they are there to do. If you do not feel comfortable asking your professor and you have a teaching assistant, ask them. They would be more than happy to make sure that you understand than to see you sit in class with a confused look on your face.

You Will Be Stressed

College is exciting but it is also very stressful and overwhelming at times. Sometimes you just need a personal day; it is okay to skip a class here and there, but don’t make a habit of it. Don’t be afraid to cry, crying does help and you will feel better after. If you’re a stress eater, try to snack on something that gives you energy, not empty calories. If you avoid food when stressed, eat a fruit or drink a shake, something small but nutritious so you have energy to accomplish your tasks at hand. The best way to deal with stress is to find a healthy outlet: go for a walk, color, or hang out with friends. Take a break and then return to the situation. You’ll have a clearer mind and an easier time completing your goal.

If You Want To Do Something, Do It

There are many opportunities in college from clubs to sports to Greek life. If there is something you want to do, and no one else wants to do it with you, then take that jump and go do it. It is better to say you tried than say you regret it. You will meet so many people who are interested in the same things you are, and it will be worth it.

Call Your Parents

It is extremely exciting to be on your own and enjoying every bit of independence, but don’t forget who got you there. Your parents will want to hear about all your college experiences and are so proud of your achievements, so include them. I know it can be annoying to talk on the phone with your mom or dad, but they miss you and want to know you are alive and well. Also, they are happy to answer any questions you have, and will gladly give you advice when you’re lost.

Do Not Over Pack

This is a common problem for first years. You pack too many clothes, or thought your room was going to be bigger or that there was more storage place. You’re sharing a room made for one with another person, there is going to be clutter and you’re going to realize that those pairs of shoes, or those fun decorations you just had to get have no place to go. This goes for food too. You have a meal plan and there are many options to buy. Don’t pack meals, just a few snacks to keep your late night cravings at bay and you’ll be fine.

Say Yes

College is the time to take risks and grab any opportunity you can. Go on that late night Taco Bell run, get those free t-shirts from the activities fair, join a club you didn’t think you would ever join, help a senior with their senior project, and go to fraternity parties. Get out of your comfort zone and say yes to adventures! Enjoy these moments because they make amazing memories.

There are so many people that you are going to meet this year, and some of them will be your best friends while others will be acquaintances. Take this time to find yourself and enjoy the adventures. This is an adjustment period, but it is also a time to have fun and work hard. Just be yourself and the people that are meant to be in your life will come your way.