When you first say goodbye to your parents and turn around to see a small, dark room that’s going to be your new home, you realize you’re on your own. With this newfound independence comes loads of responsibility that’s not just “clean your room on Sunday’s” and “leave your door open to make new friends,” but rather what your mother didn’t tell you.

1. You're on your own (obviously)

You’ve probably figured this out by now, but it’s time to come face to face with it all. There is nobody to tell you what to do and this is going to be your biggest weakness. Remember when you’re mom would yell at you to do your laundry and you ignored her until you had 7 loads to do? Well now you’re going to have to yell at yourself to do these kinds of chores and do them in a way that they don’t get piled on top of you (literally). There is nothing more embarrassing than carrying down dishes and laundry that you’ve been hoarding in your room.

2. Parties

I’m pretty sure that when you’re parents said college is the best four years of your life, they weren’t talking about classes. There will be parties and there will be times where you will be longing until you can go out on Friday (Thursday) and see just what they’re all about and why a Frat’s basement is the grossest thing on this Earth. Killing it at beer pong is great, just remember to prioritize. Yes, parties are fun, but so is not flunking out of college. Know that parties will be happening on any given day so it’s okay to not go out and stay in to study.

Also, remember it literally does not matter what you wear to these.

3. Greek Life

Yes, the House Bunny is a good movie, but you shouldn’t base your ideas of Greek Life off of that, so clear any stereotypes you have. Going Greek is a great way to make connections, network, find your second home away from home and make college “the best four years of your life.” Even though recruitment require blood, sweat and tears to make it through, it’s definitely worth the process.

4. Get involved

Getting involved doesn’t just mean joining clubs or running that 5K with your friends, but get involved with your friends, your dorm floor, your classmates- people. Take up on opportunities such as going to dinner with people you don’t know very well or going out for the night. Step out of your comfort zone to make the most of college and be able to make memories so good, you can’t even tell your mom- sorry.

College is your home and you'll miss it when you leave so it's important to make the most out of it all. Take my advice and hopefully college with be one of the best experiences of your life