Across the country, on hundreds of college campuses, (more specifically Fredonia), young adults are gearing up for the fall semester. Suitcases, cheap food and twin bed sets are being unpacked into tiny dorm rooms. All I can say right, now, is that if you have the chance to move in early to avoid all the craziness of move-in day, do it.

I realize this now, as I'm watching my suite mates rush to unpack while I'm already settled in. This way, you have the option to help your other suite mates, or roommates move in. Getting to know the people you are living with first thing will help you immensely your first few days of the semester, and may be helpful in meeting other people too. It will give you a chance to have people to tour the campus with, and sit with for those first few meals. Force yourself to talk to people, even if you'd rather just sit in your room away from the crowds.

Move-in weekend is a crazy time for everyone, especially for new and transfer students. I give everyone props, including myself, for choosing to start over at a new place, and put yourself out there all over again. But please know that you are never alone. There are most likely dozens of people walking past you on your way to your first class that feel the same way. Also, don't be afraid to seek out counseling or extra help if you need it. Im already feeling the stress of a new semester and classes haven't even started yet. But we'll all get through this together and, hopefully all on the Dean's list.

So my advice to all of you, these crazy first few days, is to attend every hall program, every meet-up and every campus event that you can. Become immersed with your new school, it will be your home away from home for at least a semester. Start off the right foot. Yes, Orientation and other "forced" icebreakers may seem like just a basic way to pass the time, but you'll be thankful for the forced interactions when you see a familiar face in your first class of the semester. So here's to all of us at Fredonia, and all other campuses across America for taking risks to succeed, all while experiencing how crazy dorm life can be at the same time. It will be one of the most amazing times you'll ever have.

Enjoy it while you can.