Back to school season is quickly approaching (*insert sigh here*). Take these do's and don'ts as a friendly, early homework assignment. You'll be glad you did when you're not that freshman, trust me. College is tricky and there is no manual on how to come out on top. So sit back, relax and listen up. Here are some go-to pieces of advice for going back to college:
1. DO have girls nights.
Those senior boys can wait in line. Grab a box of wine and get to enjoying each other's company. It's so important to have a night with just your girlfriends. The stress of school will undoubtedly get to you. Take some of the free time you have and just let loose with the people that aren't going to judge you. Whether you go out to the bars in a wolf pack or kick it on the couch, ALWAYS make time for girl time.
2. DON'T spend four hours getting ready.
Honestly, you're just going to sweat off all of that makeup. Whether you're going to a house party or the bars, it'll get cramped, hot, sticky and humid. The curls in your hair will eventually fall and your shiny, straight hair will soon become frizzy. At the end of the night, we're all wearing the same smudged mascara anyways.
3. DO try to manage your money.
We all know someone who drunkenly dropped way too much money at the bar. Try to only bring a certain amount of money when you're going out–no more than what you will need. If you don't spend it by the end of the night, just put it back in your wallet–do not order Domino's.
4. DON'T forget to treat yo self.
It's important to celebrate your personal victories no matter how small. So you got an A on that test you spent two hours a day studying for? You better eat that chocolate, girlfriend.
5. DO let yourself have fun.
It can be really difficult to allow yourself to have some fun when school work gets overwhelming. Don't feel too guilty spending a few hours away from the books to go to that party. (Just don't forget to go back to work in the morning.)
6. DON'T forget to call home.
Your family is worth stepping away from binge watching SVU for five minutes. They'll appreciate it in the long run. Happy parents = Happy life.
Think you can handle it all? (If you think you can, get back to me next semester when you've acquired twelve boxes of wine.) College is not all parties and booze–I mean it can be if you have a 1.0 GPA. Nonetheless, try to remember that failing at life is not uncommon during this period of growing up. You're going to screw up (at least a few times) so make your parents happy enough that they won't kick you out when you really do screw up big time.