It is surprising how many people are still trying to figure out the lessons we all should have learned while growing up, whether that be from our parents, our school, or just watching other people in general. Before coming to college, or maybe for those reading that are in college, here are the most valued lessons of life:

1. Wash your hands after you use the restroom

Shocking, right? I thought everyone knew how to do this, too, until I watched about 70% of the girls in my residence hall walk straight out of the bathroom stall and back to their rooms. Oh, and by the way, not washing your hands after you use the restroom is an excellent way to contract sickness AND spread it! So, maybe you should start scrubbing.

2. Taking the trash out when your trashcan is overflowing

Or better yet, take it out before your microwave Mac & Cheese cups and dining hall to-go boxes spill on the floor! Not only is this a great tip for being courteous to the space you are provided with, it also keeps all of our outdoor friends (like roaches) from coming to get the leftovers.

3. The art of walking on the sidewalk

It is unbelievable how many people I see getting pushed off the sidewalk because a group of friends cannot manage to go single-file down the sidewalk for a few seconds. This is disrespectful, and the people that watch you do this are 100% judging you for pushing the nice person off the sidewalk. It's about manners.

4. Flush the toilet

Why do I have to bring this up? This is just gross.

5. Knowing how to properly email somebody

Almost all college students already know this, but many professors will not reply to you if you cannot compose a simple email. Knowing how to do this is completely overlooked, but you will not get very far in life if you do not know how to write something this basic.

6. Learning what a utility sink is, and using it only for that purpose

Most dorm rooms have a utility sink so that you can wash dishes, although many students prefer plastic utensils and paper plates. But, for those who choose to bring washable dishes, try to utilize the trashcan that is usually right next to the sink. The janitor probably doesn't enjoy unclogging your solid leftovers from the drain. Remember, someone is taking care of these messes, even if it is not you, and you must consider that.

7. The importance of keeping an agenda

Some may argue that this is optional, but I believe that having deadlines clearly written down is necessary. Trying to balance all of your due dates in your head is overwhelming, and college is already stressful enough. Write it down.

8. Knowing when to put your phone away

Ten minutes before class starts, yes, you can be checking your phone. But if someone is talking to you whether that be one on one or through a lecture, the courteous thing to do is to silence your cell phone and put it away. You have to be able to go without your phone for more than an hour to thrive in a professional setting.

9. Knowing how to do your own laundry

I admit, I did have to call my mom once or twice and be reminded of what temperature is appropriate for what colors. But, being able to consistently clean your own clothes is very important not only because ~you won't have clothes otherwise~ but because keeping dirty laundry in your tiny room can really stink the place up.

10. Wearing shoes into the bathroom/showers

Shower shoes can be as simple as the inexpensive Old Navy flip-flops, or even crocs! Either way, the floors in the showers are filthy and it is an excellent way to contract athletes foot. If you don't know what it is, I suggest you look it up. Also, if you are just going to the restroom, wear shoes. If you think this is alright, I ran into the janitor of my residence hall last week, and even she said that she is grossed out by the number of girls she sees without shoes in the bathroom.

11. Knowing how to clean up after yourself

This can encompass a variety of different things, some of which I have already mentioned. But more specifically, this could just be little things here and there that keep your area clean. Remember, you are not the only person in your living space!

These are amongst the most simple, yet the most overlooked lessons that we should all be practicing every single day. For the high school student that is reading this, I promise your life will be better if you know how to do these things before coming to college. For the college student who does not follow a single one of these, please try them out. Not only for those around you, but for your own success, and your health in some cases.