Starting college is a fun and exciting time! It is the start of a new chapter, with so many possibilities and opportunities ahead.

Before you start, be sure to keep in mind these 12 important things:

1. Adjusting can be hard.

For some, this may be their first time away from home and it can be hard to get into the new environment. A small dorm room, roommate, dining hall food is all new and different from home.

2. Be open to those around you.

Your suite-mate, hall-mate, or person sitting next to you in class could end up being your best friend. You never know who may leave a huge impact on your life, so be open and kind to everyone you meet.

3. Call your parents.

It can be nice to give them a quick call now and then. They want to hear all about your college life because they aren’t there with you. Set reminders on your phone if you’re not great at remembering!

4. Be nice to everyone you meet.

You never know when you may need something from someone you met or end up in a class with them. In the largest of schools, the smallest of circles do cross and everyone seems to know everyone. Bad reputations spread just as quickly as good ones.

5. Use your meal points as often as you can.

It’s great to eat out and explore your college town’s restaurant offerings but be sure to use your points! They are paid for in your tuition and some schools don’t carry them over to the next year (or semester) so be sure to spend them.

6. Going random for a roommate might be the best thing you do.

Yes, it may be great to pick your roommate but for many, the first time meeting is move-in day and the only times you’ve spoken is through social media. Those who go random can tend to end up loving their roommate, it is all based on preference or comfort. Don’t assume your “dream roomie” will end up being your bestie.

7. Get close to your RA.

They can become an amazing resource in times of need or when you just want someone to talk to. They are generally only a year or two older than their hall, so they are easy to relate to and will always have their door open.

8. Place yourself on a budget.

In college it is easy to get lost in spending, so be sure to place yourself on a strict budget to cut your spending and be sure

9. Consider a single room.

It can be great to live in a room with a roommate but be sure to keep in mind if you would prefer living in a single. There are benefits to both, however, cost and social factors can be a part of your decision.

10. Say hi to those you pass in your hall and dorm.

It can be really great to get to know the people that live around you. Then when you need to borrow something or just hanging in your floor lounge you’ll never feel alone!

11. Before absolutely committing make sure that you are ok with how far your school is from home.

College is a great way to expand horizons and “leave the nest,” however keep in mind just how far from home you want to go. Getting home when you are sick or in the midst of a family emergency can be hard if you have to fly four hours or drive just one. Consider travel costs and times in your final decisions.

12. Some may want to transfer and that is ok.

For some people going to college is hard and the first semester or two doesn’t always play out, how it was dreamed out. Your “perfect school” may not truly be that. Another school may be better suited to handle your needs or wants, this is four years but no one is stuck in one place. There are options.