Summer is coming to a close, and school is quickly approaching. The bittersweet feeling of going back to school is overwhelming everyone. The idea of seeing friends again is a wonderful thought that filled our minds. That is, until we remember that classes are also a part of the package. If you are a returning student, you pretty much know what to expect. See some friends, take classes, chug red bull and coffee until you can hear colors during midterms and finals week. You know, after a while, it almost becomes muscle memory.

For those of you who are coming in as freshman, don’t be afraid to do stuff, but don’t get involved too quickly. Establish yourself in your classes first, and then get involved. Obviously, you’re going to make friends in and out of the clubs you become a part of. You’ll make friends in class and just seeing people around campus. If you’re living on campus, being friends with your roommates is always a good idea. You do live with them. Just don’t forget about your school work. That’s what you’re there to do. Your parents aren’t paying for you to go to a good school just to mess around and go out with friends. Make sure you prioritize.

To those of you entering your senior year, take it all in. It’s the last big step until you’re out of college and into the fully adult world. Make sure you prepare yourself. Not just for life after college, but for the goodbyes to the friends you will leave behind. Will you keep in touch? Probably. Will you always see each other? Maybe not. But again, prioritize. You didn’t just spend a boat load of money for a 4+ year education for a piece of paper that says “You Are Smart” to just sit on the couch and watch reruns of "Family Guy" and "American Dad." Make sure you get your foot in the door in the field you want to be in. And don’t worry, it’s gonna be hard at first. But it’s the same concept as school. After you do it for a while, it almost becomes muscle memory. Just remember, you may not see your friends as often as you’d like to after this year, so cherish every moment you have with them.