For all you incoming freshman, college is around the corner for some of you guys, and I know you must feel thrilled or even terrified, as of right now, because you will be starting a new chapter in your life. Let me tell you, college is definitely not like high school! These upcoming years are the years you find yourself, explore new activities/hobbies you’re into, meet new people, party, join clubs, and most importantly, where you take your education seriously. I asked people to provide some college advice for those of you who are anxious or eager to start this journey in life. Enjoy!

”You don’t have to ask permission to use the restroom. Super important.” -Tevin (Po)

“Take advantage of syllabus week.” -Bryan a.k.a. Grizzley

“Don’t be afraid to be friendly with the professors and take advantage of your advisors.” -Miya

“Honest freshman advice: have as much fun as you possibly (and safely) can during freshman year because after that it’s time to get serious.” -Joshua

“Be social! Go to events, join organizations. It’s a great way to meet new people and it’s always a fun experience!” -Bianca

“One piece of college advice for incoming freshmen would be not to come into college with a relationship.” -Anonymous

“Don’t procrastinate and DON’T get side tracked by parties. It’s the greatest way to fail(both of these combined).” -Angel

“Find a balance between social life and academic life because leaning too much on one or the other can be harmful.” -Krista

“Rent books on Amazon and not your school bookstore.” -Oscar

“Post the pages of deadlines from your syllabus somewhere you’ll see it so you can stay ahead(TRUST ME). 8 ams are a no go regardless on if you ‘woke up early in high school.’” -Doniqual

“Take time to explore your options when it comes to fields of study. You might find that you’re actually not all that passionate about your originally planned major, or you might find you have knack for something you never thought you would be into.” -Anonymous

“Get ready for culture shock. When you venture out of your community, you will be put into different situations with different people with different beliefs.” -Anonymous

“The number one rule about college is show up to class. There’s going to be less judgement and much more room to grow than high school. So get out of that hard shell, meet new people, and make it some of the best four years of your life.” -Justin

“Dare to be different. It helps.” -Alex

“Never be afraid to open up to new experiences and to have some fun!” -Idalis

“Don’t be afraid to check something out that isn’t familiar to you. African fare? Go check that shit out. Learn about everything you possibly can.” -Bianca

My first year in college was not at all what I expected, but it was the most fun I've had. My piece of advice is to keep an open mind, show up to all your classes, make new friends by joining clubs, focus on your school work, and most importantly, HAVE FUN!