I moved into college at Shippensburg University on August 22rd, 2018. It is now towards November and there has been so much I've learned while being here, even though it's only been almost 3 months.

My first semester is coming to a close and I can already tell this will be the best four years of my life. I've heard a lot of people say that high school is the best four years of your life, but that is not the truth at all. If you had/ are having a rough time in high school, wait until you get to college. It's going to be a major culture shock, but it is so much better than being stuck in high school.

Going along with the differences between high school and college, you will not be in the same building taking classes from 7 am until 3 pm. I have either 2 or 3 classes a day, and most of my friends have the same. It is amazing and scheduling your own classes is great. However, I suggest NOT putting gaps in between your classes and putting them in the morning. Everyone differs in what their schedule preferences are, but a lot of people agree that even an hour gap between 2 classes is KILLER. You are way more prone to skip that later class if you have a gap. Also, I really think that having morning classes isn't as bad as everyone says. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, I have a 9 am and a 10 am, then I am done by 10:50 and have the rest of the day to do whatever I want. I highly recommend taking morning classes.

Also, you NEED to start studying. Studying is no fun, I know that. However, it is crucial that you study for your classes every day if you want to get good grades in them. Most people didn't have to study too hard in high school to pass, but that is completely different in college.

Now that we got through all the academic things, let's talk about your social life. First, your roommate/roommates. You are bound to fight with them and for 99% of us, we fight with our roommates. I know it seems like you won't, but even the smallest things could set you guys apart. My advice to roommates is to make a contract stating what you guys like and dislike and what you want to see and what you don't want to see in your room. Me and my roommate used to fight constantly about the mess she was making, but after talking it out, we have become a lot closer and it is a lot easier to open up to each other. Also, don't be petty. You're an adult now, not a teenager. Respect them and they'll respect you.

The last thing I'm going to talk about is parties. Before I get into this: NO, I DO NOT SUPPORT UNDERAGE DRINKING. However, if you're going to do it, don't be stupid. Have a sober friend help you, know your limit, and go home to your room/ house afterwards, not anyone you don't know. So, don't go home with a random person you meet at a party. It literally never works out in your favor. Go home to your comfy bed where you can get a good nights sleep, and you can text them in the morning. Also, never go out alone. I think this is a given, but always go to and from different parties with other people.

College is, for most people, the first time they've ever been this free. There are so many responsibilities, stress, and scary things that come with college and moving out of your parent's house. However, know that there are so many amazing things you'll get to see and do and amazing people you'll get to meet. College is amazing, and your first semester is where it'll all begin, so do it right!