Starting college can be an exciting but overwhelming time. You finally have some freedom and get to move on to the adult word, but you are leaving behind your friends and family. By following a few simple tips, the whole process of being a college freshman can be a whole lot easier.

1.Be Optimistic

Starting college is so exciting, whether it’s a big university or a local campus, there are so many things to do. It can be a bit overwhelming at first, feeling the need to join every club you see or a sorority/fraternity, but I would suggest taking some time to soak it all in. In the end, it doesn’t matter how many activities outside of school you do and nobody is really keeping track except for you, so go for whatever you feel like doing, you only get to be a freshman once!

2. Make New Friends

This is so helpful, especially if you are attending school somewhere far from home. Even if you’re not, meeting new people causes you to get out of your comfort zone and talk someone other than your best friend from high school for a change. Creating a solid friend group in a college will benefit you in so many ways whether it be with school work, socializing, or just having someone to eat lunch with after class.

3. Don't Stress About Classes

When I first got to college, I was so scared that the work load was going to be too much, and I would never be able to do anything but study. I was wrong. I learned that all you have to do is manage your time, and make time to study for certain classes. The harder classes, you should study for everyday during your studying time. But for the easier classes, pick 2-3 days a week that you are going to study for those on top of the hard ones. Allow yourself a few hours a night of free time, and one day of the weekend for fun, and it will be a lot less stressful than spending every waking moment catching up on reading.

4. Stay Healthy

After a long day of tests it's so easy to want to jump in bed and watch Netflix all night, but don't do it! There are so many ways to stay fit around campus; the rec center, Frisbee golf, going for a jog, or joining an intramural sports team. Aside from that, eating healthy on campus can be hard. There are so many go-to snacks that are easy to eat, but aren't that good for you. Going to the dining hall is probably your best bet in getting a nutritional meal, if not, just try to make smart choices when shopping for your own food, you will thank yourself in the long run.

5. Don't Try So Hard to be Independent

For most of us, college is our first taste of freedom, but don't take that for granted. You're never too old to call your mom and dad to tell them you miss and talk about home. Sure, it's nice not having a curfew and being able to do whatever you want, whenever you want, but that doesn't instantly make you a big tough adult. It's okay to talk to your old friends about your new friends, and it's okay to use the school resources for help when you need it. Starting college doesn't mean you have to throw away everything you had before you moved in.