When you were a freshman in college, did you gain some weight? Were all those countless hours spent in the library getting to you? This weight gain is typically called the "Freshman 15." Every year, many incoming college freshmen gain the Freshman 15.The Freshman 15 comes from hours of studying, not being active, not eating as healthy as you would at home, and much more. I avoided the Freshman 15, and I want to help other students avoid it, too. Here are eight ways I avoided gaining weight in college.

1. Eat breakfast

Many people do not eat breakfast in the morning. By eating a healthy breakfast when you wake up, you can speed up your metabolism.

2. Stock your room with healthy snacks

Instead of stocking your room with junk food, try stocking healthy snacks. You will eat much better if you do not keep the junk food in your room.

3. Drink water instead of pop or alcohol

Pop and alcohol are full of empty calories and should be avoided. Water will keep you hydrated and maintain your metabolism.

4. Get active with friends

Grab a friend and go to the gym. Working out is a great way to bond with a friend while being active. You could also get a few more friends and play on the volleyball and basketball courts on campus.

5. Join intramural and club sports

College campuses offer many intramural and club sports for students. Take advantage of these opportunities. You will be much more active and want to eat healthier to stay in shape.

6. Get your beauty rest

Depriving your body of sleep can slow your metabolism and make you feel sluggish. Take naps throughout the day and make sure to get enough sleep at night.

7. Manage stress and classes

Learn to manage your classes and homework to avoid getting stressed. If you are stressed, your body's immune system worsens, along with slowing your metabolism. Find a happy medium between work time and play time to avoid stress.

8. Do not drive around campus

Driving around campus keeps you from being active. You could get around campus in many other ways, such as walking, biking, rollerblading, skateboarding, and so on.

While it is easy to gain the Freshman 15, it is just as easy to avoid it. You need to put effort into staying healthy on a college campus, but it is worth it in the end. You can even reward yourself with that cookie you have been looking at, too!