The period between finishing high school and starting college is such an exciting, overwhelming, confusing time. It’s weird because you’ve just closed the door on your childhood but you haven’t quite opened the one to adulthood yet. No one can completely prepare you for what’s behind that door as everybody is greeted by something different. However, you should know that the reality you’re about to walk into is a lot different than anywhere you’ve ever been. Once you’re in, there’s no turning back, and you become what they call a “grown up.” I’ve been navigating this journey for about three years now, and this is the advice 21 year old me would give 18 year old me before turning the doorknob.

1. Live it up.

Your summer is going to fly by, so enjoy all the time you have with your friends and family before you leave.

2. Make amends.

This is the time to confess, forgive and forget. If you have anything to be sorry for, tell them. Be nice to people. Don’t waste your time or energy on things that don’t matter.

3. Be productive.

Work hard, whether it’s in school, a job, at the gym, a sport, etc. You’ll feel so much better about yourself and be grateful when you get the reward.

4. Save your money.

Life is expensive and everything costs money. Stop spending it on pointless shit.

5. Accept change.

It sucks, but people change, plans change, and life will change. Let them do them, and you do you. Be grateful for the friendships that didn’t last and for what they taught you. Learn to roll with it, and you’ll end up right where you should with the people you need.

6. Get a piggy bank.

Stop throwing away loose change. Come home every day and empty your pockets. You’re going to need a way to pay for your alcohol.

7. Be nice to your parents.

Stop being mean or getting so easily annoyed with your parents. Spend time with them and don’t be a brat about it. It’s not easy for them to let go, and you’ll miss them when you’re gone.

8. Get your shit together.

Do what you have to do. Stop waiting until the very last minute to do everything. If you know you’re going to need a prescription refill, don’t wait until you run out of it to call. Make moves.

9. Figure it out.

Be responsible. Be independent. Grow up. It's the only way you’ll learn. Don’t expect your parents to do everything for you. It's time to do things for yourself.

10. Appreciate home.

Home is always there, and some days it's just what you need. You may get so wrapped up in your new-found freedom that you won't want to leave for breaks or long weekends, go anyways.

11. Balance.

You need your high school friends just as much as you need your college friends. You also need partying (almost) as much as you need studying. Get all your homework done, pass all your classes and go out as much as you want because these are the years you can get away with it.

12. Rely on yourself.

You’re the only person you can count on. Don’t depend on anyone else. People are selfish.

13. Speak up.

Don’t take shit from anyone or let yourself get taken advantage of. If something is bothering you, say so. People will have more respect for you if you’re strong and confident.

14. Start conversations.

Take initiative. Ask for numbers. Text boys first. Don’t wait for people to reach out to you.

15. Don’t forget mom and dad.

Once you're out of the house, call them. It’s easy to get consumed by all your work and your social life that you put them on the bottom of the priority list. Keep them on the top, always. You have the time.

16. Be more confident.

Be brave. You have just as much of a chance as anyone else.

17. Be yourself.

No one knows you like you know yourself. Don’t change just to fit in. There is a place for everyone.

18. Stop judging.

Be inspired by the people who are bold enough to stand out. You have no idea what they’ve been through or what they’re going through. I’ve learned that some of the happiest people on the outside are the ones hurting the deepest on the inside.

19. Get used to the word 'no.'

If you’ve been lucky enough to have everything in life handed to you, you’re in for a harsh reality check. Get used to rejection. You aren’t going to get into every class, program, Internship, or job you want. That's life, work harder.

20. Don’t get your hopes up.

Don’t have any expectations because you’ll probably be let down. Most people go to college and think that they’re going to completely figure life out, at least I did. That most likely won’t happen but don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t. No one knows what they're doing. Everything will work out eventually. We’re all confused.

21. Enjoy it.

You’re about to be on an emotional roller coaster with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. You’re going to grow up and see that you're capable of more than you think you are. You'll learn what matters and what doesn't, make amazing memories that you will want to re-live and have great stories to tell for the rest of your life.