Summer is coming to a quick end, and we are a week away from classes starting back up. I can not believe my summer is gone. We are all excited to see new faces on campus and help them find their place in the college life. Here are five things to keep in mind while preparing yourself for the stress that is about to hit you like a train.

1. School comes first.

Being over involved, and never being able to say the word “no” is something that I am guilty of myself. We are here at college for school, so that should always be the priority. It is great to be involved on campus, but do not overwhelm yourself. Staying in and studying is way more important then going out with friends. Always choose school over a social life. It will be worth it when you are walking across that stage to get your diploma.

2. Sleep is not for the weak.

Sleep is important, and you need it in your life. Do not convince yourself that you can live without it, because you will crash eventually. I never slept my freshman year and I paid for it when I was miserably sick for two months. Sleep is good for you.

3. The gym is a stress reliever.

We all know by now that the freshman 15 is very real. The gym is a great place to get healthy, and to relieve some stress. I love going on a three-mile run to make me empty my mind, and only think about one thing for once. You will love the change in your body, and the change in your mood.

4. Its OK to say “NO” to fast food.

I am very guilty of making mid-night trips to get some fast food, because I am bored. Not only is it not healthy, but also it’s not good for your sleep schedule. It’s OK to say “no”, and finish up that homework so you can go to bed. Fast food is easy to get and it is cheap on a college student’s budget, but fast food is terrible.

5. Going home only once a month is OK.

I live three hours away from my parents now, and I only make that trip home once a month. I love going home, but I get more done when I do not go home. We all have a new life at college and it’s time we started living it instead of trying to live both. I know getting home sick is a thing, but get on your feet and be independent.

I love college for all it is, but it is overwhelming to say the least. These tips are simple, but they will help you in the long run. Always remember that your goal is to walk across that stage to get your diploma. Keep your eyes on that goal, because so many people in this world do not have a chance to reach it and you do.