It's that time of year when you pack up your stuff and head off to the unknown, known as college, to begin a new chapter of your life. Everyone always calls it "your new journey" or "your next step in life," which you probably hate. However, it is exactly that. As you delve into furthering your education, you immerse yourself in new experiences that will shape you into who you will be for the rest of your life. It's nothing to take lightly, for it is going to be your life for the next few years.

That being said, it's okay to feel afraid. I had no idea how college would be, because it was a completely different idea than high school. I chose to go to college somewhere that was roughly three hours away from where I live because I wanted to experience how it felt to be somewhat independent. You're about to get a taste of living away from your family. You have been thrown into a new pool of people that you will weed through in order to find others to become your other family while you're away. Are you feeling awkward about walking up to people and getting to know them? You're not the only one! The most common fear I hear among freshmen is the fear of getting to know new people. Just know that you're not the only one looking for friends. Every freshman coming in is going to have to go through the process of finding new friends, even if they come in knowing some people at the college already. The bonds formed during freshman year will be some of the strongest ones, because there is something about going through it all together that builds relationships.

When you arrive, all you'll want to do is get settled in. You're not going to be able to do that for very long since orientation and all of its events start so quickly. If that's not enough to stress you out, you will also want to make the most of the time you have left with family members that helped you move in, or rather, they will want to steal you away for the little bit of time they have left with you. Find out which orientation events are mandatory or search for time gaps that you can use to spend time with your loved ones before they leave. You may even have some time to get unpacked more.

Yes, orientation is long. You will get tired. Trust me, the people helping with orientation are tired too. Be nice to them, for they are trying to help you out. Orientation is pretty much all about you, but don't forget to have a bigger picture in mind. Try to have a little fun, and just embrace the awkward ice-breakers and bonding games during orientation. It is truly a good time to meet people.

Lastly, the upperclassmen don't hate you. All they know about you is that you're invading their territory. Relax! They loosen up a little. Until then, they will let you know that you're an underclassman and that you're not as cool as you think you are. Take note of this so that when you're an upperclassman, you won't treat freshmen the same way you were treated.

Remember, college is mainly for learning and not for dating. Be smart. Enjoy the college experience. Learn something. Make friends. Have fun!