This year has been nothing like I expected it to be. As a high school senior, I was expecting to have horrible grades, weight gain, no friends, horrible roommates and really tough classes.

Even though second semester has been harder, I have thrived at the University of Dayton. I’ve made so many new friends and connections, I have lost thirty pounds, I made the Dean’s List and so much more that I’m incredibly proud of.

Here are some things that I’ve learned this year, even if the semester isn’t quite over yet.

1. Order your textbooks online, especially if you have the textbook scholarship.

It’s nice to be able to skip the lines on move-in day at the bookstore and just grab your books. The scholarship also keeps you from paying an arm and a leg for your books (and you can always sell them back at the end of the semester!).

2. You can beat the Freshman 15.

Many campuses offer amazing recreation facilities, as well as healthier options for eating. I never expected myself to be able to lose 30 pounds, and you’ll also burn a lot of calories just by walking to class every day.

3. Sleep truly is important.

You want enough, but you don’t want to get too much. I struggled with insomnia, especially this past semester. If you have trouble sleeping, take a melatonin supplement or put on some calming music. Don't drink too much caffeine.

4. If you’re ever having a hard time, you can always go to the counseling center.

It’s usually free, depending on what school you go to, so definitely take advantage of it. Nobody will judge you; instead, they will support you and make sure that things will be okay.

5. Homesickness is real.

It really hits you the hardest during your second semester, but there are ways to make it through that. Never forget that you can always call home, or that if you live close enough, you can come home for a weekend.

6. There are opportunities to get involved, no matter what you like.

There are clubs and organizations for all kinds of things; I am a member of French club, a mental health awareness organization, and a human rights organization!

7. Never pass up any opportunity to meet with your academic advisor.

They’re going to be helping you out for the next four years, especially your freshman year, so get to know them.

8. On-campus jobs are a good way to earn a little extra cash.

I worked in the library second semester and shelved books for $8.30 an hour. Next year, I’ll be a writing consultant. You don’t have to commute to work and some jobs even let you do your homework when things get slow!