During the first year of college, every student is faced with the realities of living on their own. It is important to find yourself and maintain the kind of life you would like to live independently, as an adult. There will be many days that you wake up with nothing to do, and those are the days that you should fill by doing something that is beneficial and enjoyable to you.

1. Exercising

Exercising is a great way to deal with the stress of becoming a college student. It is also a great way to stay healthy, young and fit. Many college campuses offer a gym to their students, including DePaul. Take advantage of the classes and group settings offered at these college gyms, since it is also a great way to make new friends and acquaintances.

2. Eating Well

Although many gain the freshman fifteen, a lot of my friends took it upon themselves to start a new trend by eating healthy. Use your college years as an experiment by trying new foods and expanding your eating habits. If you have never tried sushi, then try sushi! Don't knock it if you haven't tried it. College is a first for everything and anything.

On the other side of things, the college years are also there for you to learn what is not for you. Many people cope with a few bad habits, as well. This is all normal for college kids, since it is the first time living independently for most people.

3. Sleeping Too Much (Or Too Little)

I am definitely in the category of sleeping way too much. For that reason, all my classes freshman year were during the afternoon. I had one morning class for the first quarter, but it did not pan out well for me. Sleeping too much, or too little, can be negative for your social and academic life in college. Be careful of how much you sleep, and make sure you get outside of your dorm at least once a day!

4. Procrastinating

Ah, good old procrastination. Procrastinating has haunted me since high school, and continues to do so well into college. Procrastinating is not only bad for your academics, it is also bad for your social life. While you are trying to finish a final project in just one night, your other friends are out partying and having fun. Make sure you plan your coursework so that you have time to do both.

5. Smoking Cigarettes

It is no surprise that you will find many college students smoking cigarettes, including myself. The mixture of living independently without parents and recently turning 18 will do the trick. It is important to not get sucked into the smoking scene, since it is a habit that is extremely hard to break and is horrible for your health. Although I started smoking in high school, I wish I had not started so early.

Take the time in college to explore yourself and find out which of these habits to leave behind, and which good ones to pick up. I hope everyone has a great week!