Gone are the days of free candy and ghost costumes.

This year's Halloweekend was my very first college Halloween experience and I'd like to share what I've learned. Hopefully, you can apply it to your spooky endeavors next year:

1) Ignore the cold.

I grew up in Tennessee where October's aren't nearly as ruthless. Yet, I have never worn less clothing on Halloween than this year. So, to my modest friends I want to say, I understand your struggle. A part of you wants to go for the witty or peculiar costume that requires head-to-toe coverage and a 10 minute explanation. But I know a part of you has also always wished you were brave enough to show a little skin and go with a dumb, cliche costume. My advice to you is, LIVE A LITTLE! Wearing a crop top and booty shorts doesn't make you any less respectable. Halloween is a time when we all agree we aren't fairly representing our true selves so take this golden opportunity. Pick up that costume you always scoffed at thinking, 'who would EVER wear that?' and own it!

2) Go With Low-Maintenance Make Up

I know it seems really cool to do full face paint but you may regret it. I'd say if you're going to put something on your face that smudges easily, make sure you're okay with the smudged product as well. Don't try to convince yourself that it will look good all night because it won't. I promise. One party in, your face will be a mess of black makeup. I mean, on Halloween this isn't all together a bad thing, it could look spooky or crazy. Just make sure you're prepared for that outcome.

3) Don't Freak Out Over Your Looks

So, you've worked for an hour to get the hair, makeup, and costume exactly right. Now is the time to take pictures, BEFORE you go out. Because no matter how much you spray your hair and set your makeup, it is not going to last. Your eyeliner is going to end up all over your eyelid, your lipstick will be gone before you even get where you're headed, and your fishnets are going to rip. So get those selfies with your friends while you still look great, then stop thinking about it. It's Halloween and no one is going to know the mascara on your cheek was unintentional unless you tell them. Also, it's very dark and no one is analyzing the minute details of your hair and makeup. So try to worry less about how you look and more about having a good time.

4) Be Safe

This one is the most important. Halloween is a great time but I know as well as you do that your great time is probably filled with alcohol. If you're going to drink, own the fact that you're going to drink and prepare for it. Make sure to eat during the day and drink plenty of water. Find a group of friends and stick with them. While you're having the time of your life, pay attention to where your drink has been and who has been near it. if it's left your sight at any time, go get a new one. Practice excessive caution.

That's all I've got this year! But as a final note I'd like to encourage you to take these tips to heart on a daily basis. Show a little skin when you're feeling good and don't apologize for it. Do the things you're afraid to do and live your best life! Try not to worry too much about what other people are noticing about you and work on loving all of yourself. And most importantly, always look out for yourself and your friends when you're out.