I've recently been doing a lot of reflection lately as I begin the second semester of my freshman year of college. I've really come to more appreciate the education I got in high school, considering I've been using some of what I learned in high school for my general education college classes; it's honestly helped a bit.

Going from a senior in high school to a freshman in college all in one year is a dramatic change that takes some getting used to. I decided to compile a list of tips for anyone who is in their senior year of high school and needs something to reference from, since I didn't really have much to reference from.

1. First thing you should do is apply to as many schools as you want.

Give yourself as many choices possible.

2. Fill out as many scholarships as you possibly can.

Do them from the beginning of the year until the end.

3. Don't overlook the importance of FASFA

Do your FASFA on the FIRST day that it's available; this will get you more money to help with school. Even if you don't think you'll get that much, do it on the first day anyway.

4. Build a really good resume on yourself.

Create a list of all your achievements and all the awesome volunteer hours you've got. If you don't have any volunteer hours, build up as many as you can; volunteer work is really important.

5. ACTs are important

Whether you've already taken the ACT or not, take it as many times as you can. Try to get the highest ACT score that you think you're capable of getting. You have so many chances to take the ACT, and the higher the score the more money you get. Take advantage of this.

6. Start networking

Talk to teachers or any leadership figures that you know and try to get a letter of recommendation or two...or three..or more. These can help a lot with scholarships!

7. Don't stress.

This can be a stressful and confusing time. There are millions of students going through the same thing as you right now, and I promise you that you'll figure it all out! Everything works out, trust me.

8. Taking a "year off" may sound nice, but it's not necessarily a good idea.

If you take a break, you may never go back. Everyone is different of course, but be very careful with this. A college education never hurt anyone, and most employers will hire a college educated person over someone who isn't college educated that doesn't have any type of degree.

9. It's okay to not know what you want to do.

If you don't know what you want to major in or what your career path is going to be, that is completely normal! You still technically have a few years of basic courses before you have to make that definite decision. Don't stress about that.

10. College isn't for everyone.

You don't have to go to college to succeed in life. There are many other paths you can take, although going to college is a really good one. So don't feel bad about yourself if you don't feel like college is for you, that's completely okay! Everyone is different!