A note to people about to begin or just beginning college. College is one of the most stereotyped times in a person's life. Don't think you're doing anything wrong if your college experience doesn't match up with those misrepresentations. Here's a list of things to keep in mind as you go off to the next chapter of your life.

1. You have plenty of money on your meal plan.

Don't spend the first couple weeks of college practically starving and then over-eat towards the end. It is better to use the money you have than to have money left over. Check the status of your meal plan periodically, but don't stress about it.

2. The freshman fifteen is normal, but it doesn't affect everyone.

New environment, new routine, new food, and new stress levels. All of these can affect your weight in different ways. This isn't your mom's homemade cooking anymore though, so your stomach may need some time to adjust. If you start noticing changes try visiting the gym, starting a food journal, or get a food logging app like "MyPlate." If you happen to lose weight, that's perfectly normal as well!

3. It is physically impossible to attend every program or event.

There are lots of exciting welcome events planned for the first week or month of school, but don't stress out if you can't make it to all of them! These events usually preview activities or organizations on campus, so it's likely there will be many more like them! Prioritize the things you are dying to see and fill in gaps of time with other events.

4. It's okay to take a break.

Between meeting new people, events, and the new world around you, life can get pretty hectic. It's perfectly fine to go take a nap or watch a couple episodes of Netflix as long as you don't stay holed up in your room. The world will keep spinning while you're gone.

5. You don't have to be friends with everyone you meet.

There are thousands of people on most college campuses, and the events are often planned to help you meet new people! You don't have to be everyone's best friend, and it's fine if you don't like someone. Not everyone will have the same priorities or feelings as you. Would you rather have 100 pennies or four quarters?

6. Your roommate doesn't have to be your best friend.

While it might seem easiest to just become really close friends with the person you're living with, you might get annoyed with them after a month or so of living together. If you do happen to end up being best friends, that's great, but it's completely normal for you to just be acquaintances.

7. You don't have to party 24/7.

Even if you never go to a frat party, you'll still graduate college! Classes are more important than night's out; that being said, don't forget to have a good time!

8. You still have to pass classes.

Although "Cs get degrees," jobs will pay more attention to the person with good marks. Classes are important, but stay well-rounded. Your campus participation in other groups is important too.

9. Get out of your comfort zone.

Immediately after these four years, the real world is waiting for you. College is a time to have fun, learn, and mature. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself to others, apply for longshot jobs, or try new things!

10. Everyone is going through similar things, so don't be afraid to ask for help!

If you feel like you're drowning, just remember everyone around you probably feels almost the same. If you just need someone to talk, most college campuses offer counseling services that are included in the tuition fees you already pay!