My first year of college has come to a close, and while it was great, it wasn't exactly what I had been expecting. Here are six things that many people expect to happen (but didn't for me) when they start college.

1. Find out high school left me unprepared for college.

All throughout high school, I heard how college was going to be completely different. The professors were going to be drill sergeants, the homework was going to be extensive, and we were going to have to study hours upon hours each week for every class. Plot twist: that's not true at all. Sure, I had a couple of tough professors and a few stressful projects, but overall, the classroom wasn't that much different than high school.

2. Experience a little freedom and go wild.

Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to have strict parents in high school and not go crazy once you leave home for the first time. I'm living proof of that.

3. Gain the notorious "Freshman Fifteen."

I ate unhealthier than I did in high school, but walking to class burns some serious calories. Freshman fifteen wasn't a problem for me and most of my friends because we walked virtually everywhere.

4. Leave behind what my parents taught me.

A lot of people start college and begin questioning and eventually turn away from everything they learned growing up. It was quite the opposite for me- I actually grew to have more respect for what my parents taught me since moving off to begin college.

5. Eat a lot of ramen.

Somehow, I managed to miss this rite of passage into the college world.

6. Find my soulmate.

I didn't magically move to a new town, begin college, and find the man of my dreams. However, what I did find was just as wonderful- a new respect for myself, life-long friends, and a better sense of who I really am.