As a new college freshman, I have experienced some of the stress involved with prepping to leave for college or university. I wish I would have had some pre-warning as to what this process would hold, so maybe these tips will help you feel more secure in your preparation.

1. Start saving for college supplies early.

I have slowly learned that tuition is not the only expensive aspect of college. Buying everything for your dorm is going to be a pain as well. Comforters, organizers, baskets, that nice new rug. It all adds up.

2. Scholarships aren’t easy

While everyone says that “there are scholarships for everything,” you have to know where to look. I’ve had so much trouble finding ones that I can apply for, much less get.

3. Your test scores DO matter

While you may have a high GPA and you may have taken good classes through high school, you need to have good test scores. Some schools don’t require you to take both but you should anyway. That way you have a better chance of getting a high score on at least one of them. Retaking is an option. Utilize it.

4. FAFSA is a pain

FAFSA. How I hate it. Tax forms, W2s. It’s best to check the site and with your school frequently to make sure everything’s been accepted and that there is nothing else you need to turn in.

5. DO send that email to Financial Aid

People get scared that they are bugging financial aid too much. They are there to make sure your tuition is paid. They are they to help with ANY financial business or questions you may have. Utilize them. Trust me.

6. Communicate with your advisor

While financial aid covers everything money wise. Your advisor is there to do just that. Advise. He or she is more than happy to answer that 50th email from you. They are there to help switch your schedule, refer you to the right people if they can not answer your question and any other possible thing you can think of. So yes, send that email.

7. Check your email frequently

Your email is vital. You will get updates on housing, financial aid, important dates, emails about your schedule. So make sure to check it frequently. I downloaded Outlook on my iPhone so that I could have all my emails in one spot and so I get notified about important emails.

8. Always have a backup plan

Sometimes your first college choice does not work out. Make sure you have other options. Don’t set yourself on one college or university and then something happens where you can’t attend. Be prepared.

9. Bring extra amenities

While you're buying all your cute dorm supplies and clothes, pick up the things you WON’T think about. Like toilet paper, extra shampoo and conditioner, soap. You will need these in college and you will regret not stocking up before you get there.

10. Your friends WILL change

Between the senior year and your first year of college, your friend group will change drastically. I started out my senior year will a pretty decent group of friends and over the summer I’ve gotten closer to my new "froomies" (future roommates). I don’t regret cutting anyone off and I have no hard feelings towards the ones who cut me off. It shows you who your real friends are.

I hope these tips help in prepping for your freshman year of college and that your experience goes a lot more smoothly than mine did. Good luck lovelies ❤️