1. No slacking when you come back for the second semester.

You have to hit the ground running, there are no excuses for still being in Winter Break mode in the first weeks back. You will get behind and die trying to catch back up.

2. Even if your immune system is steel, you'll get sick at least once.

So many germs! It's like daycare all over again! I managed to survive the first semester with nothing but a bad cold, but about the fifth week of the second semester, I got hit with what was probably laryngitis. Not fun.

3. Have a stockpile of cold medicine, Kleenex hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes on hand.

For the above reason. The only thing worse than getting sick is not being prepared for when you are sick.

4. "Smicks don't leave Smicks behind."

I love this regardless of context. It makes me proud to go to a school where girls I don't even know will be looking out for my friends and I.

5. Be prepared for every kind of weather

One day it's 30 degrees and snowing, the next it's 70 degrees and sunny. Check the weather app constantly and have everything ready just in case.

6. Free coffee in the library is a gift from above.

I probably would've spent over $100 on all the coffee I've needed to keep myself awake the last eight weeks. I'll be milking it for all its worth the next few years.

7. Staying in with friends on the weekend isn't boring.

Everyone talks as if partying is the only way you have fun in college. But honestly, sometimes just watching old Disney movies with roommates and friends can be the thing you need the most.