This is it. Your first week, month, year, of college. Looking back, I remember being terrified. Coming to a school where I knew no one was scary. So, for the freshman coming in, who are scared, nervous, or just curious to what kind of knowledge I have to offer here are some tips and things you should remember as you go through the year.

1. Don’t take on too much.

You will always have the opportunity to add more clubs. There are a ton on campus. My advice though is to add the ones you want to be a part of slowly. Let yourself ease into college. It can be stressful and the classwork is harder than High School, so don’t be scared to take it easy first semester.

2. Take a class you normally wouldn’t.

College is the time to discover what you love and what you want to do for the rest of your life. So, take the class that just seems interesting. You might end up falling in love and switching majors. I know plenty of people that this has happened to.

3. Don’t be afraid to become friends with your professor.

They are here to help you, inside and even outside of class. Now, I’m not saying call them at 1 am about the test the next day. Just don’t be afraid to stop by their office, even if it is just to say hi. Honestly, they love this.

4. Go through recruitment.

I’m sure you have heard this a lot this week, or at least you will, however, I mean this in all seriousness. The process of recruitment will get you to interact with so many loving individuals. Even if you don’t decide to pledge in the end, going through connects you to people that you will see around campus for the next 4 years.

5. Go out!

Yes, party, let your hair down after a long week. Now, I’m not saying turn up every night. Sometimes after a long, hard week let yourself take a break and hang out with your friends. Whether it is a party, or just sitting in and watching movies.

6. Learn when to study with friends and when to study alone.

Sometimes, study groups are great! It’s nice to have someone to quiz you and keep you company. However, be careful! It is just as easy to waste 2 or so hours laughing together and then realizing at 1 am that you still have work to do. Just know when you will be productive when there is a study group, and also know when you will be more productive when you are alone.

So, that’s it! 6 helpful tips that will hopefully get you through your freshman year!