College is probably one of the most diverse, crazy, busy, and fun experiences you will ever have. It is the place where you discover who you are and what you are passionate about. It opens so many opportunities and sometimes it is a lot to take in. I know a lot of the freshman are probably nervous about this next big stage in their life. So if you are a freshman, here are some things you need to know!

1. Conquer your fear of 8 a.m. classes.

I know, they are terrible. You have to get up really early and find the motivation to even go. I hear a lot of college students, especially freshman, say that they will refuse to take an 8 a.m. class. I will go ahead and tell you that you will have to take a few while you are in college if you desire to graduate on time. Get in the routine of having everything laid out the night before so that you can spend less time getting ready in the morning. It will make your 8 a.m. class a little bit more pleasurable.

2. You will be addicted to coffee halfway through your first semester.

College can drain your energy depending on your work load and extracurricular activities. You will start to rely on your campus Starbucks for energy throughout the day. It will happen.

3. Feeling lost is normal.

College is completely different than high school. You will not have teachers contacting you if you have not turned in overdue assignments or if you are absent. You are responsible for yourself, and that can be overwhelming. Feeling lost on a college campus for your first year is completely normal and you have nothing to be ashamed of. Always feel free to ask around campus. It is the best way to learn your way around campus and how to adjust to this new life change.

4. If success is what you desire, you cannot party every day.

If you are on a big campus like I am, you will understand that parties are thrown all the time. I am not saying you cannot party. However, you need to party when you have free time and do not have class. For example, do not go to a party knowing that you have an 8 a.m. class the next day.

5. Do not let peer pressure take over your life in college.

People will try to convince you to do the inevitable. Most of the time, it is not lawful, but you will feel obligated to try it in order to fit in. Again, this is not high school. You have the opportunity to seek out where you belong. You get to place yourself where you want to be placed. Do not let peer pressure get to you. It could get you into a lot of trouble and could cost you more than you could ever imagine.

6. Don't leave God behind.

Many people have made this mistake going to college, including myself. It is so crucial to keep that relationship with Him through your college career. College can get really tough and you may feel like you have no one to turn to. If you establish that relationship with God when you are in college, I assure you that you will be at peace at the end of each day.

7. Call your family and/or support group frequently.

These people are constantly cheering you on as you are trying to cross the finish line to graduate college. They care about you and worry about you constantly. Stay in touch with them and make sure you appreciate them for all of their support. Cherish the people that cherish you.

College is a roller coaster, but you can do it. I have faith in you. I hope all of the college freshman enjoy their college experience as much as I do.