I've been a college student for three years now, and I'll be the first to admit, it's tough. If you're already in college then you know exactly what I'm talking about but if you aren't, well, here's what you should prepare yourself for: many hours spent writing papers, lots of studying for quizzes and tests, and several sleepless nights finishing homework. In no way is college easy, but here's a list of eight things to make it through:

1. Get involved on campus

Being involved in extracurricular activities and clubs allows you to be connected to your school, meet new people, and experience great opportunities. Also, all of the organizations you are part of can be added to your resume. It is never too early to start building a resume for your future employment. Whether you play a sport, go Greek, or become an ambassador for your school, get involved on campus! You will not regret it.

2. Make friends

These people will help, encourage, and support you through it all. Your college experience will be unforgettable with awesome friends by your side. My college friends are truly the ones who play a huge part in my life.

3. Have study groups with your classmates

Having study groups with my classmates has always been so helpful for me. If I missed an assignment or I couldn't find a few answers, my classmates caught me up during our study group.

4. Make time to go out with your friends

Yes, you should dedicate a great amount of time toward your studies but you should also make time to go out with your friends. I would probably go insane if all I did was study and write English papers 24/7. College is suppose to be fun. When I look back at my college days, not only do I want to remember how hard I worked to earn my college degree, but I want to remember the good times I spent with my friends as well.

5. Plan to have lazy days or nights

College is stressful and aggravating at times so sometimes, you just need a break from all of the chaos. Having a lazy day or night always helps me clear my head and calms me down when I'm overwhelmed with school.

6. Go to class

Yes, I know this is easier said than done. We all have those days that we wake up for our morning class and do not feel like going, but it is so important to go to class. You do not want to miss a quiz, multiple assignments, or notes. You have to go to class to learn.

7. Do your schoolwork

Do your really expect to pass your classes if you do not complete your assignments or study for your tests? Your answer should be no. Do your work like you're supposed to and pass the class the first time because let's face it, college is expensive. And who really wants to take a class a second time? I know I don't. One time is enough for me.

8. Believe in yourself

There's been times when I really believed I was going to fail a class or was not going to finish an English paper, but guess what, I did pass that class and I did finish that lengthy research paper. If you believe in yourself, you can accomplish anything.

Doing these eight things has helped me survive college, and I hope this list will benefit you too. Thanks for reading!