With each passing day, the realization sinks in that graduation is becoming a reality. Many of you are happy because it’s time for bigger and better things, or maybe it’s the champagne celebration that follows the ceremony. Maybe you’re trying to avoid it because you just aren’t ready to leave. Well, let me tell you something, you’re not alone. But the truth is you’ve been in school for like five years and whether you like it or not, graduation is barreling towards you and getting ready to drag you by the messy bun all the way to the real world. Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to prepare for the real world.

1. Do put together a resume.

This is pretty self-explanatory, but suppose you spent your time in college partying too much and skipped all those tech writing courses. I’ll explain: Your resume should basically show you’re flawless in every area you’re applying for. They have to believe that you are the Beyoncé of office work, or whatever job you may be applying for. This is where you are able to share your accomplishments from time spent in college. For example: SGA Senator, officer in your sorority, all that great stuff that shows your potential.

2. Don’t set your alarm for three minutes before you have to be there.

This was great in college, but in the real world it’s just not plausible. It made so much sense before, staying up all night partying. It’s hard to wake up for 8 a.m.'s after those nights, so you just showed up at 8:10 and went on with your hangovers. At least you made it, right? But after college it’s like you’re setting yourself up to fail. You will never make it anywhere in time. When you stay out until 3 a.m. partying, you better get your alarm set well before you have to be at work because your big girl job just won’t have it. Fingers crossed for jobs that start after 10 a.m.

3. Do keep in touch with the friends you made in college.

Whether they were day ones, dorm mates, or sorority sisters they were the ones who were there when life got real for you. When things got hard they were the ones that fought for you, cried with you, and stood by you. They should be the ones to celebrate with you when you walk the stage and continue into the real world. Over time, you’ll find that some of them may trickle away. Life happens but you know those true blue friends you made in college will stay by you forever.

4. Don’t forget the time spent in college.

You learned a lot, maybe not in class but through experiences you had. Carry those moments with you forever, continue to grow and learn from them. They will help you in the future.

Finally, hats off to you grads, you made it! Now get out there and show the world what you’re made of!