Freshman year of college is so exciting -- you’re finally living on your own, you’re making new friends and you’re trying so many new things. Of course, this can be very overwhelming because there are so many new things to try at school. So, please enjoy this list of essential Marist things that you simply must try during your freshman year.

1. Chocolate milk.

OK, this one may seem ridiculous, but the chocolate milk in the dining hall is clearly made with some sort of magical secret ingredient because it is so delicious. Try not to go overboard though because this is definitely one thing that will make the freshman 15 a sad reality.

2. Cupcake Tuesdays.

The simple joy of picking out your favorite flavor of cupcake and decorating it yourself cannot be beaten. It brings you a sweet package of happiness amidst a hard week of school

3. Darby’s Fridays.

Friday night means Darby’s and that’s all I’m going to say about that.

4. Union Saturdays.

Boys, get your khakis and girls grab your favorite skirt or dress and hop in that $3 cab to Union. Pro tip: Mind the stairs!

5. Chicken bacon ranch at P-Ridge.

I still remember the first time I tried it. I mean, look at it! It’s like a little bit of greasy heaven in your mouth.

6. Pancakes at Palace.

Some of my favorite weekend nights have consisted of 2 a.m. pancake cravings at the Palace Diner. Also highly recommend the mozzarella sticks because who doesn’t love those?

7. The Walking Bridge.

The Walkway Over the Hudson which goes across the Hudson River is hands down one of my favorite things about going to school in Poughkeepsie. The beautiful views up and down the river are unbeatable.

8. Lola’s.

Right next door to the Walking Bridge is Lola’s Café. There really is no way to describe the pure deliciousness but it’s a must. Pro tip: Try the peanut noodles and remember it closes early!

9. The Marist Tree.

December during Freshman year is hard because it’s the first time you’re dealing with finals and it’s so close to break you can’t even stand it. Luckily, the Marist Giving Tree gets put up and holiday cheer is abundant. You’re not really a Marist student if you don’t have a picture under this tree.

10. Sunsets by the river.

This one isn't going to get a picture because I don't want to spoil the magic! I'm sure every Marist student has a picture (or 50) of at least one sunset at school. They're honestly so stunning and there’s really nothing better than going down to the river alone or with friends and soaking up that last bit of sunshine as the sun sets behind the hills. It’s just one of the many things that makes Marist so amazing.