As I'm beginning to get settled into my freshman year, I'm reminded of a couple of things as I attend classes and try my best to make new friends. Here are a few things that I know to remember in these next four years:

1. Never say no to a workout.

Why? Even though you may dread it or don't want to do it, in the long run it will make you happier and healthier. I'm not saying that it's life or death if you skip one, but try to get into the steady routine of a workout and you will not only see physical results, but a better mental health as well! The more you workout, the more endorphins you release. Endorphins cause happiness, thus leading you to a happier, healthier, you! While working out, you can also beat the freshman 15, added bonus!

2. Never skip your time reading the word and talking to God.

I know it may be hard, but as you grow older it is easy to "grow apart from God" as they say. But as I grow older I know I need him more everyday, and the more I speak and read the word, I know that I am going to have a more positive and less stressful day. When speaking to God, tell him how you feel. You may not think that he replies, but he is always listening.

3. "Be yourself because everyone else is taken."

Yeah yeah, I know it is an overused quote, but in all honesty, it's the most real quote out there. The more I tried to fit in and be like everyone else, the more disappointed I ended up being. As a high schooler, I always wanted to be friends with "The Cool Kids." I would try so hard to dress and act like them, but I was always given the short end of the stick. I've decided now that i'm in a new school with all new faces, I know that I can be anyone I want to be! So I am being myself, and if somebody doesn't like that? Who cares! Because people who will love your personality and sense of humor (because I know, I'm funny) will come around, and those are the types of people that you want to affiliate yourself with!

Overall, freshman year has been me eating lunch alone, going to Starbucks every night until it closes just to get my work done, and meeting a few great friends who I know will last a lifetime! Right now, Life is not perfect. In time it will become the life that God wants it to be. I'm following God's path and right now this is where he wants me to be. I know God has me in the palm of his hand, and has a plan for my life, so I'm not worried about my future. (I say that but in all honesty, I am terrified.) OK, I might be terrified, but I am positive there is a plan for my life, and reading this verse gives me instant peace.

Jeremiah 29:11 says: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."