Freshman year is all about a new start, new experiences, and making a lot of new mistakes. There's so much I wish I knew before my freshman year: how to find the right major, how to save money, etc. I asked around the FGCU community for answers and here are the responses I received.

"Don't get a pet! It was a dumb first week of college mistake for me!" -Emily Beltran

Pets are a HUGE responsibility, whether it's a cat, dog, or a fish. Although it can seem alluring to complete your dorm package with a cute little beta, they still require care: feeding, cleaning, etc, The easiest solution is to be smart, wait until you're out of college and living a more stable lifestyle to get a cute critter.

"Don't be afraid to socialize, chances are people are wishing you would talk to them too especially if you're sitting awkwardly at a table with them." -Shannon Bossman

Please don't, college is the best time to talk to strangers and socialize because you'll have the MOST in common with people. It'll also be the freest time in your life to join clubs, volunteer, go out with friends, etc, because you won't have a 9-5 full-time 40hr/week job in the middle of it.

"Always buy your textbooks used or rent them. This semester alone my four textbooks totaled about $200." -Amber Aikman

Again be smart, there's absolutely no need to buy a full-priced textbook you'll only use for a few months and then throw out. The bookstore is always the MOST EXPENSIVE OPTION. You can buy used, rent them, or buy them from previous students. Check out Amazon, Chegg, or even your college Facebook page. Save that $100 you saved for your college debt, your bank account will thank you.

"Don't date right away. Having a relationship shouldn't be a priority, you should let yourself experience life alone for a bit." -Katy Morrell

College is the time to figure yourself out and be your own person. I'm not saying you immediately need to end any relationship that you're currently in, however, it's good to branch out before sharing your life with someone.

"The Freshmen 15 works both ways, you can lose or gain 15 Ibs." -Sami Bell

OMG YES. Also, you can gain way more than 15 lbs. Personally, I gained 30 lbs. No, I'm not proud of it, yes, I have lost it all. Count your calories and only eat when you are hungry.

"Don't put too much on your plate your first year, you still have 3+ years to do everything. Spread everything out to avoid stress and exhaustion." -Gracie Dougherty

Enjoy your freshman year because it will only happen once! Take your prerequisites but only take maybe 12 or 15 hours of classes. Not only is this financially feasible, but it also gives you the opportunity to get your feet on the ground living a college lifestyle with all the adult responsibilities you will have.

"Always keep an open mind and try to go above and beyond your comfort zone." -Lia Fevola

Get uncomfortable, try to see both sides of the equation and go do something you've never tried before.