As my first semester of college has come to a close and we will soon be getting ready to start up again, here are some important lessons I’ve learned. It has been so much fun, and also a lot of work, but I feel so lucky and privileged to be at my university with such amazing people.

1. There are a lot of genuine people out there, all with their own stories.
2. You will make some of the best friends of your life here.
3. Busy is okay. Busy is actually great.
4. This is the place where you will blossom and really surprise yourself.
5. Live on the edge.
6. Talk to as many people as possible. The more you talk, the more you learn.
7. Always try something new.
8. Take every opportunity you can.
9. Work. Work really hard.
10. Learn to like coffee before exams come around.
11. Netflix will take a back seat.
12. But also, pick a show to watch with your roommate when you do have free time.
13. Don’t buy the textbooks before you really need them.
14. You’re going to miss this place when you leave for break.
15. No, you’re really going to miss it, and the people extra.
16. Push yourself to be better; to be the best version of yourself.
17. Take some time for yourself.
18. Use the salad bar.
19. Don’t get locked out of your room.
20. If you’re going to get a pet, get one that won’t smell.
21. Use the tutoring center. It works miracles.
22. The vending machines take student ID’s. It is a great thing.
23. Set goals for yourself. When you come up too short, reflect and notice what you could have done better.
24. Laugh too hard and too loud.
25. Try to live in the moment.
26. Trust me, college is so much better than high school.
27. Surround yourself with the right people and you’re golden.

College seems scary at first. Everything seems foreign, especially when you don’t know anyone. However, you’ll quickly realize your potential because this is the time that will be filled with memories worth having.