Oh, baby... It's that time of year again.

Summer is winding down, and the fall semester is beginning to start.

And after three months of warmth, excitement, and adventure, adjusting to a life of textbooks and studying is a transition for college students everywhere.

The transition is so difficult due to one of the hardest steps of this challenging process - leaving your home friends.

And trust me, I know. You don't even want to think about doing that.

But to make this tough step just a little bit easier, there are three things that you should remember.

1. It's not a goodbye, it's a see you later.

Just how this summer flew by, Thanksgiving will be right around the corner.

2. Live your life.

The memories you make will soon turn into stories you'll be able to share the next time you see each other.

And lastly, we all know that college is a bubble. Once you are acclimated, it's easy to forget about the world outside of campus. But try your best to...

3. Make an effort to keep in touch.

A funny post that reminded you of your friend? Send it. An idea as to what you both should do the next time you see each other? Send it. A plan as to when you will visit them? Send it. Because whether there's a reason to talk or no reason at all, these quick, little ways of communicating can be a large reason as to what keeps you both connected and updated during these next few months.

* * *

Summer and college are two completely different experiences, and for four years we get to experience both. You have the best of both worlds with home friends around in the summer, and with college friends for four years right around the corner. Enjoy it.