Starting college and being away from home is hard. Your parents aren't right there for you anymore, and you kinda feel alone. As a senior, I feel almost obligated (and very willing) to help out incoming freshmen and underclassmen. Here are some tips I wish someone gave me when I first started college.

1. Make time to call home every week Don't text your parents and siblings. Phone calls/video Chats are so much more personal. It really makes a difference when you can hear someone's voice when you're stressed out. They'll also appreciate you taking the time to actually call them.

2. Make Schedules but be flexible Schedule study time in your planner and really dedicate time to that. Make time for yourself too. Even if it's only 15-30 minutes a day. Treat yo self. But don't let yourself get stuck in a rut or spiral out of control if something goes wrong.

3. Try to eat healthier Now, I'm not saying grow your own food and only eat grass. Don't eat fries every day. Make doable healthy swaps (like yogurt and fruit for dessert instead of ice cream). The Freshman 15 is real, and is completely avoidable if you eat a few veggies and fruits. Pro Tip: Get Pots and pans and try to cook for yourself if you have access to a kitchen.

4. Go out and make friends I know, easier said than done. But most colleges have a million clubs and activities that are bound to have something you like. Go out to a meeting and introduce yourself to one person. Find something you have in common with them. Tip: Talk about why you're both there.

5. Don't be afraid to do things alone Go to eat by yourself, study by yourself, do something by yourself. Sure, it's great to hang out with friends. But you can't always rely on them to be free when you are. Get comfortable doing something by yourself. Being independent is really great sometimes.

6. DO YOUR LAUNDRY WEEKLY This is pretty self-explanatory. Set a couple hours aside once a week. You can study while your clothes are being washed or dried. You can even fold them and put them away in one day. Don't let your clothes sit too long. Your roommate, parents, and nose will thank you.

7. Take care of yourself Apart from setting aside some "me time" once a day, you have to take care of yourself. Sure, good grades are important. But are they worth sacrificing yourself? Take a shower, go for a walk, EAT REGULARLY , get adequate sleep, color, watch some Netflix, hang out with friends, relax. You is important. Take care of you booboo.