Congratulations! You've just signed to the college of your dreams! I know you're probably beyond ecstatic and senioritis seems to completely take over. You can't wait to get out there and compete for your new team, meet new people and explore new experiences!

I know that's exactly how I felt immediately after my commitment, and you should feel like that!

You probably hear this all the time, but cherish the rest of your time in high school...because your entire life is about to change. So many people have told you this for a reason.
I wish I had spent more time with my family instead of dreaming about what I thought college would be like....because college is nothing like I imagined.

Here are a few things to keep in mind as move in day approaches

1. Make friends outside of athletics, and your major
Networking will probably be your biggest asset in college. It is important to have friends outside of your own sport!

2. Don't lose sight of who you really are
It's easy to get caught up in trying to fit in, but honestly, being yourself will bring more friends in than trying to become someone you're not.

3. You can't please everyone... and that's okay!
Some people are going to dislike you, that's life. Instead of trying to be best buddies with everyone, focus your time on the ones who lift you up and encourage you because those are your true friends.

4. You are going to change
And that's okay, too. Freshman year is all about finding yourself and learning new things. You are going to grow so much physically, mentally, and emotionally, but this is a good thing!

5. It is going to be hard, like REALLY hard, but you will survive, I promise
Treading through the snow at 6 AM for morning practice followed by 5 hours of classes is going to be crazy. Not to mention the practices and meetings you will have after that. Learning to balance school and athletics is going to take time, but it is not impossible. You've made it this far. You have to believe in yourself!

6. RELAX!
Constant stress physically, mentally, and emotionally can take a serious toll. Find times throughout the day or week to nap, read, relax, or just hang out with friends! Do something that you enjoy! Take care of your happiness. Love yourself - it is important to take care of yourself first.

7. Call your mom regularly
Weather you moved 1 hour away or 1000 miles away, your mother will ALWAYS have your back. She always be there to listen to your problems and will have the best advice. Plus, calling her and just giving her an update on your day will make her day. She misses you more than you think.

8. NAPS!!!!!!
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Naps are your best friend. Whether its 13 minutes or 2 hours long, they will save you.

9. Lean on your teammates
Cheesy as it sounds, you really are all in this together.

10. Stay focused on your grades
A C or two is not going to kill you, but grades come first. After all, you are ultimately in college for one reason... to get a degree. Grades are definitely one of the more important aspects of being a STUDENT athlete. Don't forget that bad grades could spell the end of your sports-playing days!

11. Don't forget to have fun!
While it may get hard, never forget to smile and have fun! College isn't just essays and crack-of-dawn practices, it's also about making lifelong friends and trying new things.

12. Whatever you do, don't ever give up
Sometimes it life may seem impossible, but it will be worth it in the end.

Freshman year was honestly one of the most challenging, yet greatest times of my life! I have learned more about myself in the 1st semester of college than ever before. You are stronger than you think you are! Don't be afraid to ask for help. While life may get overwhelming, believing in yourself and don't give up when life gets hard!