1. Meet with your professors

You will probably hear this a thousand times your freshman year, but for good reason. Your professors want to help you succeed, as scary or as intimidating as they may seem. Ultimately, it is their job to answer your questions and you are paying to be in their class, so utilize them as a resource. You'll be happy you did.

2. Budget wisely

Money doesn't grow on trees, so it's important to spend your money wisely. Five-dollar coffees and Uber rides from one end of campus to another do add up, which leaves less money to spend on other activities. Also, you're in college and things can go wrong. It's important to have the extra cash in case of emergencies.

3. Get involved

Getting involved in clubs and organizations on campus is a great way to meet other students with similar interests. As a freshman, college can seem like a never-ending sea of unfamiliar faces. Joining student groups helps make a big school feel smaller. Also, if you're anything like me, clubs and organizations keep you busy, making your time more valuable, thus preventing procrastination.

4. Work hard, play hard

This may sound like a given, but trust me, it is easy to get distracted in college. Just like grades mattered in high school, they matter even more in college. The higher your GPA, the more opportunities you have down the road.

But that being said, it's also important to let your hair down sometimes. Going out with friends and having fun is a great way to release stress.

5. Don't study in your dorm

Dorms serve two purposes: getting ready and sleeping. If you study in your dorm, you're exposing yourself to a world of distractions. Instead, study in a library, in a café, or even outside.

6. Stay active

The freshman fifteen is very real. If you want to avoid putting on the extra lbs, take advantage of your on-campus gyms or even go for an outdoor run. Additionally, daily exercise helps to maintain stress levels, minimize breakouts, and boost overall self-esteem.

7. Find hidden gems on campus

You're only in college for a limited time. Find the relaxing outdoor study spots or the virtually unknown cafes. Take walks around campus and become familiar with all the unique places it has to offer.

8. Talk to your family regularly

Just as going off to college is an adjustment for you, it's also an adjustment for your family. Call them, communicate with them, let them know what's going on in your life. They probably worry about you a lot, so it's nice to ease their minds and let them know how you're doing.