There comes that time leading up to your freshman year of college, you're so ready to leave home, excited for the adventure thats before you and you can't wait to be on your own. You get moved into your first apartment or dorm and yeah you're a little nervous but you're mostly excited. Freedom to do whatever you want, and the feeling of independence...but living on your own isn't all its cracked up to be sometimes. These are the things I learned when I first moved away from home and I'm sure you will too.

1. Just because you can doesn't mean you should.

Just because you can stay out all night, seven days a week, doesn't mean you should. Just because you can have donuts every day for breakfast doesn't mean you should.

2. Empty Fridge #college isn't actually that fun.

When you're living off of Ramen noodles for a week it's really not fun. Be smart, budget your groceries.

3. You'll miss your parents.

Trust me when I say this, you will miss them! You may be thinking, "no way, I'll just call them or FaceTime, it'll be fine." Trust me, there's going to come a day when you're so stressed out and all you want is your parents there.

4. You actually have to clean.

Not just pick up after yourself, I mean clean. Disinfect, sweep, mop, etc.

5. Doing your own laundry sucks.

Seriously, I accidentally turned all my t-shirts pink the first time I did laundry in my apartment.

6. You'll appreciate a home cooked meal.

Even if you cook for yourself its very different than having your mom or dad make it for you.

7. The first time you get sick will feel 10x worse.

Because your mom isn't there to nurse you back to health.

8. You have to learn to take responsibility.

No one is going to be telling you to wash the dishes, wake up for class, clean your room, set a doctor's appointment. That all now falls on you, it's your responsibility.

9. You'll learn so much.

Not just how to do laundry and how to cook, but you'll learn a lot about yourself.

10. It'll be the best time of your life.

Even though it'll get hard sometimes just remember, it's the start of adulthood and the start of your independence, have fun!