Dear freshmen,

Yes, everyone will know that you are freshmen. And you will know it too. I am sure you're already excited and have likely finished the college shopping that I have yet to even start. There are tons of things to be excited about, of course. I'm sure that college will not disappoint. Just remember, cherish your freshman year. It's going to go by crazy fast and it will be over before you know it. There are so many amazing things you are going to get to experience.

Get to know your RA. I promise you it is worth it. They are great people and will always have your back and be there for you. Go out of your way to attend the events and get togethers they plan. You won't regret it. They'll comfort you when you're homesick, listen to your roommate issues (that you don't think you're going to have, but probably will), listen to your boyfriend issues, about your fight with your best friends and so much more. But they can only do so much. Meet them halfway and get to know them.

Go to class. You will regret not going when midterms and finals come up. And do your homework too. First and foremost, you are at college to get an education and learn. No one wants to waste their credits by failing a class and having to retake it. And while you're there, get to know your professor. He or she probably has some very helpful tips and tricks to passing their class. And who knows, you might be able to apply it to other classes. Go to their office hours, every professor will be more than happy to help you out.

Go out of your way to meet new people. College is a great opportunity for a new beginning. Make new friends and new connections. Have fun. College is a place to learn, but also a place to have fun. Everyone needs to relax and kick back sometimes.

And by the same token, try not to care what other people think. Be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're not. It's exhausting. Don't wear clothes you don't like or join clubs you don't enjoy. Do what you want.

Get involved. You'll regret not being involved in clubs and activities. The bring tons of opportunities for meeting new people and making connections and learning new things.

Most importantly, though, make college your own experience. You're going to make mistakes. Everyone does. But don't let them bring you down. Learn from your mistakes. Learn from everything you do. Take chances. And of course, make sure you have fun. Those four years will go by faster than you ever expected.

Good luck and I hope you have a great year!

from,

an upcoming sophomore