As fall break approaches, I'm realizing that I've learned a lot in such a short amount of time. College is a time for growth and change, something I realized very quickly. If you can't remember anything from that midterm you took last week, try to remember these things about life in general.

1. It's okay to change.

Since moving away, I've changed a lot as a person. I'm learning to be more positive and accepting of new experiences. Sometimes change is a good thing.

2. Being outgoing is so helpful.

In high school, most of us knew all of our friends for years. We didn't have to try very hard to make new friends. In college, you often don't know anyone. Going in with an open mind will make you so many friends.

3. It's okay to go to the party.

College is a time to have fun and meet new people. Especially if you go to a bigger school, partying is part of the experience. It's okay to let loose and have fun with your friends. Be safe and stick together and you'll have some great experiences.

4. It's okay not to go to the party.

So, all of your friends are going out on a weeknight and you have an exam you just have to study for. It's okay to sit this one out. I can assure you that there will be more parties but there probably won't be another chance to take the exam. Do what's best for you.

5. Naps are life savers.

Between studying, watching Netflix, and hanging out with friends it can be hard to get a full eight hours of sleep every night. Naps are your best friend in college.

6. Getting a job is a good thing.

Truly, the best things in life aren't free. That pizza you're craving at 2 A.M isn't going to be free. The shirt you just HAVE to have isn't going to be free. Getting a job is a good thing and teaches you some great time management skills, too.

7. It's okay to ask for help.

College is hard. It's okay to be stressed out, worried, nervous, and anxious. There are so many resources on campus to help you get through. Make sure to take advantage of these resources, no one is judging you.

8. You should always have snacks with you.

Sometimes you'll go the whole day without being able to go back to your room or the dining hall. That granola bar in your backpack is going to be a life saver at some point.

9. Do the extra credit.

Doing the extra credit will be the best decision you've ever made. That way, when you forget to do an assignment one week, the extra credit will make up for it.

10. Call your mom.

It's amazing what a call home can do for you. Talking to your family will make you feel calm when it seems like the world is crashing down. Or, if you're having a particularly great day let your mom know so she can be happy with you.

11. Do the readings.

Readings are so important in college. The tests often have a lot of questions from the readings and you don't want to be left clueless.

12. Treat yourself.

It's okay to buy yourself a $5 coffee from Starbucks every once in a while. Don't overdraw your bank account, but treat yourself every once in a while.

13. Going Greek is an amazing experience.

Going Greek can make a huge college feel small. The amount of amazing people I've met in the Greek community is outstanding. Having a support system of roughly 200 girls is so helpful.

14. College is the best time of your life.

In just three short months, I've learned so much. I have become happier than I've ever been. I've met new people and had some great experiences. Being on your own for the first time can be terrifying, but the lessons you learn and the memories you make will stay with you forever.