Ahh college. There are many ways to go about being the perfect college student. These steps are what I have learned are necessary to become the best college student you can be.

Step 1: Graduate High School

Obviously graduating high school is absolutely necessary to become a college student.

Step 2: Get into the college of your dreams

Getting into college is a battle in itself. You apply at multiple places even though there is only one that would be acceptable to attend in your mind. When you get in, you can’t help but cry.

Step 3: Move in

Move in day is filled with so many emotions. Sadness because you realize you aren’t a kid anymore and you are basically on your own. Happiness because you are on your own and can do what you want and make your own mistakes. Of course there is also a load of nerves on your shoulders because you don’t want to let your family down once this all actually starts.

Step 4: GO TO CLASS

Go to class. Do not pass Go. Do not collect $200. Only skip class if you’re sick, you only get so many days depending on the professor that you are allowed to miss class without penalty, so use it when you are actually sick. Don’t use it when you stayed up too late the day before your 8am class and you want to catch up on sleep. That’s what naps are for.

Step 5: Nap often

If you ever get a chance, when you don’t have work to do and you can take a small nap, DO IT.If I have learned anything it’s that a nap can be your saving grace after being up all night studying then getting up for an 8am class. Nap when possible, but don’t overdo it.

Step 6: Study

Now, the last thing you want is to pay boatloads of money and loans and not pass your classes. Always study whenever it is possible. Even if you think you know what’s going on in class, study. I have learned the hard way that even if I think I know what’s going on, I don’t. Take time out of your day to sit down and reread the chapter that was gone over in class, the sooner after the class the better. The average human forgets 50% of what they learned the previous day if they haven’t gone over it. Go to the library, sit down with some Starbucks, and study.

Step 7: Get a good night sleep

Sleep is your best friend in college. If you don’t sleep, you won’t do well. A late night Netflix binge session is great and all, but save it for the weekend. The last thing you want is to sleep through your alarm because you were up all night watching Grey’s Anatomy.

Step 8: Make friends

Friends are important in college. Having the friends I do is probably the only reason I am where I am today. If I am going through a hard time I can always depend on my friends to be there for me. Whether it’s to help me study, talk to me, or go out to dinner, they will always be there for me and I will always be there for them. They are your family while you are away from your real family.

Step 9: Have fun

Have fun. Go to that party, but be responsible. Having fun in college is a given, but being responsible is on you. Always travel with a buddy when you walk around campus at night. College is an experience you will never forget, so have fun.