So, you're the high school senior with a 4.0 GPA...congratulations.

You're excited to graduate and move onto the next part of your life - college.

However, are you truly ready? You may have gotten the good grades, but do you have what it takes?

Because let me tell you, you're in for a big surprise.

College is NOTHING like high school. Instead, it's the best (and most stressful) years of your life.

It's going to be hard, you're going to be stressed, and you'll probably want to rip all your hair out, but all of those amazing friendships and experiences are worth it.

I know, I know.. you're going to college to get a degree, get a good job, and make lots of money, but it's not going to come as easy as you think.

You never studied for a test? Start now or you won't pass. You'd freak out if you got lower than an A? Calm down, it's going to happen. You never had homework? Get ready to be buried in papers. You never failed a class? Don't freak out; it happens to us all.You were laughed at for being the nerd? Get over it, there's no such thing in college. You rarely ever took notes? Get ready for constant hand cramps.

In college, success doesn't come easily. You really have to work for it. If you don't put in the time and effort, you're never going to achieve the grades you want. However, let me tell you this: B's ARE GOOD. Don't get me wrong, we all want A's in college, but it's not as easy to get them as it was in high school. If you get a B on an exam or even in the class, don't panic - that's a really good grade. Just try your best!

Also, change your attitude. Nobody likes arrogance. If you walk into the classroom with the attitude that you're the smartest and you're going to get the best grade, I wish you the best of luck. Some classes are going to come easier to you than others, but nobody likes a know-it-all. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, but never try to make yourself seem superior to others. We don't compare test grades or brag about our scores because we all know college is tough. If you don't change your attitude, you're not going to make very many friends.

So enough with the grades. You're not only in college to get a degree, but you're here to have FUN. There are so many opportunities in college that the possibilities are endless! You're going to be scared at first. It's a new environment and you don't know anyone, so get involved! I literally can't stress this enough. Join an organization, find what you love, meet people who have similar interests, and make so new friends! Don't just stand around and wait for people to come to you because it's not going to happen. You need to take initiative and get out there! Introduce yourself to a classmate or get to know your roommates. People are so friendly in college that I promise you won't be ignored. We're all here for the same reason and we were once in your shoes, so we completely understand.

College is going to be stressful at first. It's such a huge transition and you'll definitely feel overwhelmed. Just breathe. It's going to be okay. The first semester is rough for everyone, but I promise it will get better. Just take it one step at a time!