I remember the first time I saw my high school teachers again since starting college, during spring break of my freshman year. Some of them asked me what I had learned in my year at college. If I were to answer them honestly, it would be that I did learn academically -- my classes were awesome and I loved my professors. But it is so much more than that. This summer, halfway through college, I've been working closely and speaking with lots of incoming first years, and some of them ask about college transition and social life. For those of you coming into college, here are some of the things I've learned outside of the classroom.

1. Be a good roommate.

I had my share of bad roommate situations, and it was about 50/50 -- sometimes I was the bad roommate, and sometimes my roommate sucked, too. Moving away from home and into a small double bedroom is tough no matter what. I shared a room at home, but it's so different sharing with someone you haven't known long. Just be considerate of your roommates' needs and concerns, and speak up when you need your roommate to rethink things, too.

2. Budget your money.

I can't tell you how I run out of money after working all summer...last year it was textbooks, getting my hair done, going to dinner, buying clothes...suddenly I had $20 in my checking! Thankfully this summer after having to pay for my own meals and live independently, I've figured out how to make that dollar stretch. Trust me, it sucks asking your parents for money when they're already paying your tuition bills. That being said, don't hold back on fun, but also realize you're only gonna go out in that dress, like, twice.

3. Time flies.

I'm halfway done! Holy cow. There's still so much on my bucket list here and I so wish I had taken part in certain things the past two years. Take advantage of the time you're given, it passes more quickly than you would think.

3. There's still drama.

Everywhere you go, there will be mean and petty people. Rumors still exist, especially if you're at a small liberal arts college. Brace yourself and always hold your head high. Mean people exist in real life, it's not just "high school drama." Luckily, lots of people do mature and are less likely to care about the rumors that people spread.

4. Appreciate your family and friends back home.

I miss my parents, grandparents, siblings, and best friends at home, especially because I'm here year-round. I love my college town, and I love school, but it's easy to take home for granted. Text and call them! They probably need you, too.

5. College sucks.

Waking up for an 8 a.m. stinks. You think it'd be a breeze considering you had to wake up at six in high school, but it sucks. Bad. Sometimes you don't get to bed until 5 a.m. because of a huge paper. My professors grade attendance, so I show up to class with migraines or viruses. It is more difficult than you think to decide between going out on a Saturday night or doing that term paper. Cafeteria food makes you homesick, dealing with roommate stress makes you cry, and sometimes you just hate the courses you have to take. But...

6. College rocks.

I love learning. I love my friends up here, I love the freedom, and I love that my hard work pays off. I've had so much fun, and learned so much about the real world. Remember to get involved in your interests, try to take electives that seem fun, and enjoy the ride.