Dear incoming freshmen,

As the new school year for college students is quickly approaching, there is excitement, maybe a little fear, and definitely some dread in the minds of students, and potentially even professors. Are you ready for the ride of a lifetime?

College is nothing like high school, it's basically like starting all over again. For some, you may be moving away from your parents. Whether it be across the state, or across the country it's hard. There's the fear of not making friends, not doing well in classes, and missing home. The excitement comes out with the idea of meeting so many new people, getting to try so many new things, and following your dream, and working toward your dream career. The dread, however, hits with one main point. Homework. There is so much work in college. Class may be great and fun, but the homework that comes after can be daunting.

However, since I have started school, I have discovered a few things that make it all easier. The transition is rough at first, but if you remember these few things, starting college is going to be a much easier task.

First off, go to class. I know it seems simple, it also may seem like a no brainer, but just listen for a minute. It is so easy to wake up one day and decide you don't really want to go to class.

If you go to a big school, with class sizes of 100+ people, what are the chances of your professor noticing you missing? After all, aren't they are too busy with their 99 other students to worry about the one open seat? But that's not the point. You shouldn't go to class for your professors. You need to go to class for yourself. You learn so much more from a professor's lecture, than you will learn from the book. Plus, more times than not, professors put questions on their quizzes and tests that you would only know if you went to class. On the flipside, if you go to a smaller school, where the average class size is 20-30 people, it's common for professors to have attendance be not only mandatory, but also part of your grade. They will generally give you two-three "free days" where they won't dock your grade. But let's be honest, they are going to realize when you're gone. And if you're like me, they'll see you n the hallway and ask you where you were and what you were doing. Just go to class.

Second, don't be stressed about meeting new people and making friends. Face it, everyone in your classes are going to be in the same boat as you. My advice? Make sure you choose a seat that is not secluded. Find a seat near someone else. Chances are you'll find something to talk about before long. Whether it be through discussion in class, laughing at the weird things your professor may say/do, or maybe a group project. Just be open to all possibilities. You never know who you could meet if you just keep an open mind.

Third, make sure you get to know your advisor. I honestly can't count the number of times I have gone to my advisor for help. Whether it be dealing with a hard professor or trying to figure out an assignment that make no sense, I know she is always there. Heck, I've gone to her office just to talk about life and drink Starbucks.Your advisor is going to know your name, and your major, but it is your job to make sure they know you. Get your name out there! Your advisors often have a lot of pull with professors and internships for your future. Let them know that you are excited and dedicated to get this degree. Believe me, you won't regret it.

Honestly, college is such a wild ride, but it's a great ride. I have loved 90 percent of my college experience so far. Believe it or not, you are going to learn far more than what is on your given syllabus. My last piece of advice? Enjoy it. You won't get an experience like this again.