I think I speak for everyone when I say that it's important to make the best of your college years. College is more than going to parties, staying up all night, and going to football games. Adjusting to college life is easier for some than it is for others, but in the end, we all have the same goals. Here are five pro tips that will help you maximize your college experience.

1. Wear sunscreen

No one ever takes me seriously when I tell them to wear sunscreen, but it’s important. If you are going to college, you are going to be spending lots and lot of time in the sun, there is no doubt about it. Sunscreen on your face is a must, no one wants sun damage or sunspots on their face by the time they are 30. Sunburns are unforgiving and uncomfortable while weird tan lines and embarrassing. Sunscreen is an essential on a college campus, it is a huge lifesaver.

2. Get some sleep

I know this is easier said than done, but sleep makes everything better in the long run. While you might have a pile of assignments due, staying up all night to finish them will not help you learn the material. Making time to sleep should be just like making time to eat or making time to watch your favorite show. Catching up on sleep makes college life much easier.

3. Go to class and pay attention

We pay a lot of money for these classes, people. Skipping class is throwing your money away. While sometimes skipping class is justified (like a family emergency or an illness), skipping class because you “don’t feel like going” does more harm than good. If you go to class and spend the entire hour and fifteen minutes on your phone, you aren’t learning anything. Even if your professor is terrible and reads of a PowerPoint, you still should make an effort to review the material. It’s better to cover the material more than once anyway.

4. Look for jobs and internships

No one is going to hire you without experience. Smaller jobs and internships in your field can make a huge difference in the long run. Employers want to see that you are dedicated and motivated and getting an internship or job in your career field while you’re still taking classes shows them just that. While it might sound intimidating to balance work and school, it’s important to remember that everything is temporary. The hard work that you put in now is going to be what puts you ahead in the future.

5. Get involved

This is coming from someone who is not quite involved herself, but I already know that my lack of involvement is hurting my chances of making connections and getting on the job experience. Networking with representatives in your field and with your peers opens up millions of opportunities. If you’re antisocial (like me), the best way to start networking is to go to events with your friends. Sooner or later, talking to people is not as scary as it used to be. If you aren’t antisocial, make the effort to join clubs and organizations that are important to you, whether or not they are in your field. It always helps to start somewhere.