Okay, let's chat about what a college student is.

We know there are many different students at each school, and that everyone has a group they belong with, but we also know that there are some common characteristics of college students everywhere.

It's easy to go into college and think that you are going to find exactly what you were looking for in a school, and that you can handle the classes, organizations, and party scene that everybody talks about. It's typical, however, to get overwhelmed by what is around you, and by the constant need to seem like you have your life together.

Just remember, between the party scene, greek life, and those annoying 8am classes, you don't have to be the stereotypical college student.

You have the ability to say "no."

You do not always have to help someone with their classwork, or go to Wendy's at 2 am with your friends. Sometimes you have to understand when to say no and take charge of your own choices. Believe me, people will understand and admire you for it.

You do not have to spread yourself thin.

Joining a club or two is a great way to keep up with what's happening on campus and getting involved with other students, but you do not have to overwhelm yourself while doing so. Choose clubs that interest you or have to do with your major, or simply skip the clubs and organizations to stay focused on your classes. No one says you have to be the most involved student in the world.

Don't be afraid to take more time.

Not everyone finishes college in 4 years without taking some extra courses or an extra year, so don't feel like there is something wrong if you have to extend your education beyond the typical 8 semesters. You always have the option to take courses over the summer holiday, and even take another semester or two in order to keep up. Taking extra time can even allow you to lighten your course load during the school year to be more manageable.

You don't have to be a partier.

You don't have to spend your nights drinking and partying just because you see it happening. If you don't want to drink, you can say no and stay in, others will respect you for it. This is your life, and you can spend your time how you choose. Not every college student drinks and participates in the party scene, and no one is going to judge you for standing your ground with your morals.

Every person is different, so make your college experience your own. Choose how you want to spend your time and get your degree your way, and look into different options if you think they will help. No one says that college has to mean parties, overachieving, and finishing in 4 years.

Take the classes you want, and do what makes you happy. In the end, there's nothing better than being proud of the choices you make.