Well, it’s finally hit me.

I’m sitting at our table, studying for finals and making study guides (yes, you read that correctly. I’m not procrastinating!), and I just realized that my freshman year of college is coming to a close. The year that I waited so long for, is almost over, and I’m starting to think freshman-itis is a thing.

This time last year, I was a month from graduating high school. I was counting down the days until I would walk across the stage wearing my maroon gown (which, by the way, made me look like I was wearing an oversized trash bag). I had made the decision of where I would go to college, I was finishing the year with great grades, I was entering what I perceived to be “adulthood,” and I couldn’t be more excited.

That last month flew by, and summer was filled with days by the pool, some days spent working, and lots of fun trips. I can honestly say I have never had such a fantastic summer. Like any student about to enter college, I was nervous, and a little stressed about the rigor of the upcoming year, but my excitement far outweighed those negative aspects. August crept up, and suddenly, I was a college student.

If you are in college, you probably know what daily life on a college campus is like, and there isn’t a need for me to describe my every day as a freshman. For those of you about to enter college: take advantage of the days to come. I was so overwhelmed by everything happening at once, that I didn't really ever stop and realize how absolutely amazing my first year was. I made the most wonderful friends, saw the most beautiful sunsets, and really got to see, first hand, everything that life has in store for my future. Yes, some days suck. Those weeks where you have a test in every class? Been there. The days you’re sick and want to stay in bed, but know you have to get up and go to class? Done that. There will be days where you will miss your mom’s cooking, your dad’s hugs, and your brothers’ side comments. That’s okay. It’s part of growing up, and going to college does not mean you are permanently separated from your family. They are always there for you, and I promise your momma will always be willing to spend time with you on the phone! Just trust me - the good parts of college will outweigh those bad ones.

There were times this year when I let those negative days take up all my time and concentration, when there were so many positive things going on around me - I just didn’t put out the effort to look up and see them! College is a unique and extremely eventful time in our lives. It’s the last time before our main focus becomes work. Go to every sport event, every function, every festival, every extra thing your time allows. Of course, school is your TOP priority (repeat: TOP priority), but take advantage of all the opportunities being given to you. “Work hard, play hard” has basically become my motto. Get your stuff done, and you can have fun (I think I’m going to paint that on a canvas).

If I could go back and tell myself things to do differently (if you’re a senior in high school right now, please take this advice), here are 5 things I would say:

1. Get organized. Seriously Claire, get your schoolwork together and stop procrastinating. If you organize your life, you’ll have more time to do fun things, and you won’t be fighting for good grades. No, stop, you don’t need another nap today. For the love of all things good, get organized. College professors won’t accept your ridiculously late assignments like your high school teachers did, and no, you can’t sweet talk your way out of that project.

2. Spend more time appreciating your family. They will always be there for you, unlike that boy you met (also, if your mom doesn’t like a boy, reconsider what you’re doing - think Justin Bieber’s “Love Yourself”). Don’t be rude to your mom or dad, they only want the best for you. They would do anything to save you from getting hurt. Take their advice—they really have been there and done that.

3. Get involved! Not only does it look great on resumes, but you will meet friends that could be with you for the rest of your life. There are clubs and organizations for everything, so don’t make the excuse that there isn’t a place you would fit in.

4. Drink more water, exercise on a regular basis, and stop going to Sonic every day. Not only will you feel/look great, but your wallet won’t be empty thanks to your tea addiction. Exercise has been proven to relieve stress, and will also motivate you to get organized in other aspects of your life!

5. Most importantly: take time to appreciate everything around you. Take the time to pray, to meditate on God’s Word, and to take in the beautiful things He has created. Remember always that you are created in His image, and that even though it’s extremely hard sometimes, that you were created to love others (even yourself). Don’t let petty things allow you to think harshly of others. God loves them just as He loves you.

So, farewell my freshman year of college. You were stressful, exhilarating, and I wouldn’t exchange you for the world. You gave me some amazing friends, and amazing memories. Thank you for reminding me to love myself, and for teaching me to recognize my own potential.

I can’t wait to see what the next four years has in store - especially now that I’m organized (tips on college organization for extreme procrastinators to come later)!

Woo Pig!