So, I just got back from visiting my (future) alma mater Emory University, and I have to say that I am definitely wayyyyyyy beyond hyped. Every time I look at all the classes and clubs that I have the option of choosing from, my stomach gets all fluttery with excited nervousness. And the new Mac my dad got me to take to college doesn't hurt either.

So, I decided this: since I'm so excited to attend university this fall, why not spread the hype?

So here you go: 5 easy ways to get yourself excited for college, no matter where you decide to go. (And they even work even if you're an aspirational high schooler!)

1. Buy cute college gear!

This point always manages to slip into my college articles, haha.

Believe me, I know--while college is bound to be a whole new take on life; a place where we "youngins" grow up and mature into educated adults as we head off into the world--many people are still not completely satisfied with where they're headed this fall. I totally understand; not everyone can get into their dream school. It's not anyone's fault; it's just a sad fact of life!

But can you really stay disappointed once you're clad in a cute, comfortably colored sweater that's emblazoned with your university logo that even comes with a matching water bottle and thermos? Yeah, I thought not.

2. Visit your new home!

College isn't quite believable until you're there. Believe me, it's quite an awakening once you've actually set foot on campus. Once you've met all the friendly faces you'll be greeting happily in the fall, seen the classrooms and greenery, tasted the food and taken a shuttle or two, it all finally starts to set in. You get to see what you've signed up for. You get to see the beauty of the place that not only chose you, but the place that you had chosen. Overwhelming, no?

Take a deep breath. Welcome home.

3. Talk to your new classmates!

Sometimes the transition to college can get a little lonely, especially if you're headed off to a school where none of your friends are headed.

But never fear--social networking is here!

Every college and university usually sets up some sort of Facebook group or GroupMe chat for the incoming class of freshmen. So take advantage of this! Hit up fellow classmates who have similar interests, hobbies, or talents--and don't be shy! Chances are you'll both be at school for the next four years, so try to make it so that you'll both be at school together for the next four years!

4. Look up classes and clubs to join!

In high school, we're often forced to take classes we don't want to take. Whether it be Calc II, AP US History, or Physics I, we weren't always indulging our interests when it came to classes. Same deal with clubs--we often just joined them to fluff up our resumes for college. I honestly have never met someone who actually cared about NHS in high school...

But in college, it's a whole different ball game. You take that dance class if you want to, and go for that psych lecture! Join that tennis team, and the GSA seems cool, too! What does it matter what other people think? It's about you, baby.

And, 5...Drool.

Don't be afraid to fangirl about all the great things that are about to happen in your future! College is a time of strenuous study and learning, yes; but it is also a time of exploration and fun! So go ahead and BE EXCITED! BE HYPE! There's a reason why they say college is the best four years of your life, and very soon you'll see and understand just why.

And that's a wrap! Class of 2021, we're going to take the world by storm.

It's our time to shine.