To an incoming college freshman:

Welcome to college and welcome to all things new and exciting!! You are onto a new adventure in your life. Whether you are going to community college, staying in state, or traveling far away from your hometown, college is a HUGE step and major change. You are no longer a little kid anymore. If there is anything I can tell you, it is to take in as much as you can at your college or university.

1. Get involved!

That doesn't mean join 25 clubs you may not have any interest in, but love your school. Get to know your professors, indulge in your books, get involved with something you like. After all, its YOUR education and your future. Make the most of the short four years (or more) that you will be there for.

2. Make friends.

Yes, I know you have had the same friends for X amount of years, but reach out and get to know other people. Whether it is your new roommate, a kid on campus, or someone from your class, open up and meet new people. You would be amazed how kind people are and how easy it is to get to know someone. I met my roommate at Accepted Students Day and she is one of my best friends today.

3. Have fun.

Everyone's idea of fun is different. If you want to party, go party but be smart. College parties are unlike anything you have ever experienced. Weekends are known for parties at most schools, so study but also enjoy yourself. Colleges also have events on the weekends such as football games, late night food places open, karaoke nights, and more if partying is not your thing. Don't stay in every single night of the weekend! Get out once in awhile!

4. Make mistakes.

Yes, make mistakes. My freshman year was an eye-opener for me. I learned a lot about myself, learned who my true friends are, and figured out my major. If you don't mess up, you don't learn. You aren't perfect, you are going to change. It is your first year of college and there are many more to come. Keep learning and moving forward.

5. Study.

Wake-up call. College is not free nor is it cheap. You are paying a LOT of money for your education. Read your textbooks and stay on top of your assignments. It will pay off someday and you'll thank yourself for it.

6. Stay in touch.

Dorming was a new and exciting part of my college experience. I gained more freedom and was no longer living at home. However, I missed my parents a lot. I would text my mom almost every day just keeping in touch. Do not lose contact with your family. Call them, text them, FaceTime them. Anything. Keep your parents close to you. This step in your life is hard on them too.

Embrace your first year and hold onto everything it gives you. It is going to fly by quicker than you can imagine. More importantly, you are going to make endless memories and have many experiences you might not encounter again in your life. Be smart, have fun, and enjoy the ride!