As cliche as this sounds, junior year of college was the best one yet. I was old enough to know the ins and outs of my campus and to feel relatively comfortable, but I was not too old to be living on the brink of emotions, keeping track of all of the “lasts” (sorry seniors). Junior year taught me many life lessons that I wish I had learned sooner, but I’m thankful I finally did.

1. Homework can wait

Up until this year, I could not think of doing anything else other than studying for my upcoming exam or writing that 10-page term paper that’s due in a month. Though I was very well organized and got everything done about 2 weeks in advance, I drove myself crazy and I did not take time to laugh with my girlfriends or to binge watch 5 episodes of Grey’s Anatomy on Netflix. Taking a break and allowing homework to be put on the back burner at times was well worth it.

2. Say yes to social events (9 out of 10 times)

Unless you have a 200-point final the next day or you really just need to get some shut-eye as you’re running on minimal sleep, say yes when social events arise. Whether it’s a frat party that you really don’t want to get dressed up for or just a quick ice cream run with the girls, say yes to this time spent with others. Say yes to building relationships and making memories.

3. Don’t write people off

Think that kid in your psychology class is a little off-the-wall? Angrily pissed at a once close friend? Never turn a cold shoulder to people (unless of course it is warranted, which does occur in few situations). That kid may be one of the funniest people you’ve met all semester. And your friend loves you just as much as you do her, so be civil and keep on keeping on.

4. MAKE FRIENDS

This is so simple that it almost seems that it should not be included in this list. But honestly, this was the first year of school that I made an intentional effort to develop genuine relationships. I didn’t sit by myself in the student center and I didn’t keep my door shut 24/7. And let me tell you, it made a world of a difference.

5. Be a friend as often as you need a friend

Too often I was the mopey girl who never had anything positive to stay. Nobody likes the dark cloud of the group that brings down the mood. Similarly, people tend to get frustrated with someone who dominates conversation and makes it all about themselves. So as much as you want to open up to people, be sure to let them open up to you too.

6. Leave the semester knowing you are relevant

Kind of odd, but let me explain. I have been using the word “relevant” as the adjective describing myself this past semester. I have deemed myself “relevant” because when I walk through campus, I no longer hide my face in socially-awkward fear, but I give a smile and a “hi how are you” to people that I now know the names of! It has helped me to feel so much more at home on my campus.

7. Don’t go home every weekend

The weekends are the time when relationships are built and memories are made. As much as you may miss the comfort of home, push yourself out of your comfort zone and stay on campus for the weekend. You may find that you really do enjoy yourself when the environment is much more stress-free and the social atmosphere is completely opened up on a whole new level.

8. Stay low on the sweets and dinners out (your swimsuit bod and wallet will thank you)

Treating yourself every now and then is totally fine! But a muffin everyday and sit-down dinners three times a week are most definitely not good for your health, productivity, or bank account.

9. Wake up early enough to get yourself ready for the day

Freshman year me would roll out of bed 10 minutes before I had to be in class. With three years under my belt, I have learned that giving myself enough time to physically and mentally prepare myself for the day ahead calms me down and sets the tone for a good day.

10. Don’t be afraid

New people and new experiences can be scary, but trust me, feeling alone on your campus is even scarier. Start early, and don’t wait until 5 semesters in to find your place and to seek out your people.