People experience college in so many different ways. Some have the worst times of their lives while others are off never wanting to leave. Me on the other hand, had a mix of both. First semester of my first year of college seemed to be a nightmare. With countless anxiety attacks and a few phone calls begging to go home, I thought I'd never end up where I am today. Now, just finishing up my first year of college, I can already say I am proudly counting down the days until we move back in. I love college.

While getting used to the college lifestyle, I was silently sitting back and letting reality hit me. I let many life lessons sink in and came to the realization of a lot of things. After going through some of these situations myself, or sitting back and watching others go through them, here is what I learned during my freshman year of college:

1. Showing up to class looking like a complete scrub is 100% normal.

2. Usually your group of friends from the first night aren't going to be your close friends all year.

3. You need to venture out in order to get those close friends.

4. Dining hall food isn't as bad as people say it is.

5. That boy you hooked up with at a party isn't going to become your new boyfriend, and quite frankly, he probably won't remember you if you walk past him the next day.

6. Your professors do not care if you pass or not, so try your hardest for yourself.

7. Getting involved is the biggest thing, whether it's on a sports team or in a club.

8. Take advantage of all the free events; lame or not there's usually free things involved.

9. Do NOT waste your time on a boy who only wants to hookup; find a boy who is 100% down for you.

10. Having movie nights with your friends a few times a week is a necessity.

11. Wandering around aimlessly throughout your dorm during move-in week is a must to get to know who you're going to be living with.

12. ALWAYS and I mean ALWAYS wear shoes in the bathroom (trust me, there were a few this year who didn't).

13. Pick classes that seem interesting to you. Don't pick classes you know you won't be able to pass.

14. Take advantage of Thursdays and Saturday parties. You don't want to miss out on a good party with your good friends.

15. If you like to party on Thursdays, absolutely do not take an early Friday class.

16. The freshman 15 is a real thing, so pace yourself with the junk food.

17. Always go to class with a snack... you don't want to be that annoying student with the growling stomach all class.

18. There are people on this campus who also have no clue what they're doing.

19. The library will be your best friend during finals week.

20. It's a good thing to be social, but don't be too social. Remember what you're really at college for.

21. Don't be that freshman who wears the lanyard with your school I.D in it around your neck.

22. Photograph all exciting moments! Don't go out without a photo shoot before hand.

23. Be yourself! Don't allow people to control your pathway through your college journey.

I know that's a lot to let sink in, but know these are the rules I lived by my first year of college as well as many other college students. The next three years are going to be a blast and sophomore year couldn't get here sooner. Let the countdown to move in day begin!