First, to all freshman—get to know your hallmates.

Not only will you be living with them for the entirety of your freshman year, but they’re also in the same awkward position as you. So you might as well just be awkward together and who knows, you may actually make a great friendship out of someone you would never expect to! Everyone is new to this college thing, so don't worry.

Get involved on campus. There usually is some sort of awareness day where you can get to know all the clubs and organizations your school offers to students. This is your chance to get involved and make friends and do something you enjoy. Even if at first you don’t think anything will appeal to you, I can guarantee that there is definitely something there that interests you. Trust me, just go!

Do not go home every weekend. Force yourself to stay! There is no doubt, unless you have no soul, that you will be homesick. It's natural. But you have to stay and go out. Trust me when I say that the weekends of college are worth it because they can be some of the best experiences of your life. You’ll take the stress out of your schoolwork, you'll make a bunch of new friends, and most importantly, you'll have a good time.

Get to know your college town. Since half your school does go home or commutes, campus won't always be "poppin'" on the weekends. So, if you have car, take advantage of it. Get to know where the local restaurants, bars, and fun places are to keep you busy.

Finally, don’t hate it before it gets good. Your beginning of freshman year at a small school might make you want to transfer since you're just making some friends and getting used to the college feel, but just wait. Soon enough you'll be involved, have your close group of friends, and never want to go home. That’s the best part about a small university—you make the closest relationships and never want to leave because these next four years will be the best years of your life. Give it a chance!