As August approaches and I am getting ready to enter my final semester I look back and think of a few things. Many are the memories I have made along with my friends, but there are certain things I wish I were told when going into my freshman year.

1. Grades don’t come easy.

In high school grades came easy for some because you had certain things to fall back on if you didn’t do so well on a test, however that is not the same for college. You have to learn to study and be disciplined to know that just because all of your friends can go out and have fun there are times you will have to miss it because you are paying for an education.

2. You will learn who you are.

Sometimes growing up we try so hard to be this person in which we are not. Once going to college and being able to meet an entirely different group of people and live on your own, you quickly begin to become your own person and learn who you are.

3. Friendships.

My college friends are the best and they are the ones who were there in the time in my life that I was just being me and having some fun. They are the ones I know who will always be by my side. However, while away I have found that my friends from home and I have a bond that is incredible. It is the best feeling to come home to my friends and be able to talk as if we just saw each other the day before. So yes, you will meet your life-long friends in college and to the few you keep after high school realize they are the ones who will continue to be be there throughout your life.

4. Hardships

It is always not this perfect life while in college. Life does happen and there will be plenty of bumps in the road. Unlike high school though you have to resolve those issues by yourself and figure out what is best for you. This is a blessing in disguise because you learn a lot about yourself and how you handle certain situations.

5. This is the best four years of your life.

I will say it once and say it again. College is the best time. You learn so much more than what is in a textbook or in a classroom. You experience so many new and exciting things, as long as you want to. It is what you make of it, so go in with an open mind and wanting to get a full college experience because I did and can honestly say that was the best decision I have ever made.

Now go have fun and be the broke college kid you want to be.