Dear College Freshman,

Well, believe it or not, your life is going to significantly change in a little over a month, maybe even sooner. You are going to College! I bet you thought this time would never come. It is quickly approaching and I am sure you are so very anxious. I know I was too. All you have ever known was living at home, having home cooked meals by mom, living just a hop, skip and a jump away from your best friends and so much more. In a short period of time, a lot of that is going to change. You will not be living at home or sleeping in your own bed. The home cooked meals will go away for a while and some of your greatest friends will be going across the country to attend school. As you can see, this will take some adjusting. But do not worry, everything will end up just fine!

The day I left for college was definitely one I can perfectly remember. The uneasy, nervous stomach filled with butterflies, the excitement I had when decorating my new home and calling it my own. All of this was so new, and it was so fun. All I can really say is that, you never really know you are ready to go away until it is actually happening. I had my mind set that I was ready to be on my own away from my family and friends. I was also convinced that I would not cry when saying goodbye to my family and friends. I am telling you now, it will happen. Do not fight the tears, just let it happen. It is a bittersweet cry, and it will feel a little weird leaving all you have ever known for 18 years, but it is all worth it. I must say, I have come a long way from the day I said my goodbyes. Looking back, I would never change a thing. Now, as college sophomore I can finally say that freshman year was one I will never forget.

Anyways, at this point you probably have everything figured out. From your roommate to the color of your sheets. That is all the fun stuff. Save all your 20-percent-off coupons from Bed Bath & Beyond and you will be set! Make sure you have everything good to go for the time move in day rolls around. It will come up quicker than you think! Do not forget the little things too! Decorate your room with items from home, to make it feel more cozy and comfortable. Print tons of pictures to hang or frame. Make this new home just like your real home.

Lastly — and I cannot stress this enough — take advantage of the time you have left here at home. This is going to be a time in your life where everything is going to change. It is all up to you how you make it. Spend time with your friends and family. Go to all your favorite restaurants and maybe ask mom to cook some of your favorite meals, she will sure love that. After all, there will be one less spot at the dinner table now! With freshman year being over, it makes being home so special. You learn to appreciate the little things like your own bed and the amazing shower pressure in a private bathroom! It really is all about the little things in life.

They matter the most.

Sincerely,

Devyn, soon-to-be college sophomore