It is hard to believe that I am already finished with my third semester of college. Now that I went through both the ups and downs of my school adventures, I have some insight for those who might be feeling skeptical on what they want to do or where to go after high school.

1. Living away from home is understandably nerve-wracking, but is ultimately a great thing.

I was initially mortified to step out of my comfort zone and leave my house. It was all I knew— admittedly, my mother did just about everything for me. I rarely even had to do chores at home. She would cook, clean, do my laundry and even make my bed. Due to all of this, I was more worried than ever to be living on my own. It was difficult at first, but after a few weeks, I became used to being more self-sufficient, which was a great lesson to learn outside of the classroom. You’ll get into your own little system in no time— it’s really not as bad as it seems.

2. One makes a ton of new friends in college, even if they do not expect it.

When I first arrived, I felt very alone and really wanted to go home more than ever. However, once I gave it some time, I made so many new friends. Once you meet a few people, you’ll meet some friends of theirs that you may click with, and the cycle continues. Sure, I am not best friends with everyone I have met, but there are some special friends that I have become so close with in college that it’s unbelievable to me how they were not a part of my life until now.

3. Don’t fret over having a random roommate.

I was worried that I would not match well with my roommate during my first semester being away at college— and it turns out that my worry became a reality. Even if you have a bad experience with your first roommate like I did, it is completely okay. There is also no need to worry beforehand, because worst-case scenario, the school will be as accommodating as possible with room changes. I changed roommates after a mere two weeks, and everything went uphill from there. Unfortunately, having a random roommate is often the luck of the draw. Luckily, my second try worked out a lot better than my first. Afterward, a semester later, I roomed with one of my best friends that I made in college, and that really made the experience even better. Even if rooming gets to a shaky start like mine did, things will improve.

4. Get involved on campus.

Although this sounds simplistic, it really makes the college experience so much sweeter and more rewarding. There is something for everyone. Find several clubs and activities that you love, and stick with it. As long as you find a good balance of keeping busy with schoolwork and extracurriculars, it will feel fulfilling. If it does not get in the way of academics, maybe consider running for an e-board position in a club. Once I did so during my second semester of being away, I felt like I was making even more of my experience.

5. Take advantage of any other opportunities given.

One may not realize how much a college campus has to offer. Whether it be free tutoring services, free health services, volunteering opportunities, study abroad or more, make the most out of it. For me, I will be studying abroad next semester, and even though I will miss my campus immensely, I am very excited to see what new experiences I will have and what the program has to offer. While I was not sure if I would find my place on campus, in the beginning, it will now feel weird not being there next semester.

I know that it is almost college decision time for many high school seniors, so I hope that some of my advice, realizations and experiences will help. It is definitely a time where a lot changes in one’s life, but the school that you choose will feel like your home away from home in no time.