There are different stages of preparing and going throughout college. First, you're trying to make the decision where to go and once you commit it becomes a complete relief. Not only do you know where you're going but college is so new and exciting. That all changes super quick though. Here is a definite guide as to how your feelings change throughout your first few experiences in college.

Before Committing

May 1st is a date that will forever haunt the minds of students. The uncertainty and fear that ensues when trying to pick the right school is everlasting. Trying to figure out what school will not put you in the most debt and where you want to spend the next four years of your life is hard. It's unbelievably stressful. Tour after tour, the decision just got harder.

After Committing

Once you commit, your chosen school is the best place you've ever been to. You cannot wait to go and you dream about it daily. Always decked out in college gear, you're ready to rep your school any time any place. You've placed it in your Instagram bio and are ready to tell the world where you've committed. Every day is like a countdown waiting to move right in.

Your First Semester

In the beginning, everything is great! So many friends and things to do, it's perfect! You can hang out with whoever whenever you want. But soon everything changes, there is homework, lots of it, and exams almost every week. Living on your own is scary. Some people experience a change in themselves for the better and maybe even some for the worse. You become more accustomed to the way college is.

Second Semester

This is when it really gets rough. You finish first semester finals and realize you have to do it all over again. Most of the time you just want your semester to end and counting down the days until summer. Homesickness is real and everyday is a complete mystery. Finals week is a blessing and a curse because going home for the summer is great but finals are not.

Overall, college completely changes from before and after freshman year. From being a confused but excited prospective student to an overwhelmed student the experience is truly once in a lifetime. There is so much excitement surrounding this time and there are millions of other people who would love to be in the same position. It is truly a wonderful experience. I wouldn't change it for the world.