When you think of going to college, you probably think of making your own rules, making new friends, and basically doing whatever you want. I know, because I have been there. Truth is, yes you get all of those amenities, but it's a little different than it sounds. First, you must pick where you will spend your next four years, then you can think about all of the freedoms that you will get to endure. And must I say, the latter is the easiest of the two.

When picking a college it is a necessity that you make sure you are going for the right reasons. Don't go to The University of Apple Pie because the boy/girl you really like from chemistry is going there. This situation might seem crazy, but you would not believe how many times it actually happens! Along the same note, don't pick your college based off of your best friends. At the time, in high school, it may seem that you and Brittany are BFFs and The University of Pumpkin Spice is just perfect for the two of you, but maybe it isn't. It may sound a bit selfish, but it is crucial that you pick the college that is best for you, not your boyfriend/best friend/sister/mom, YOU.

When picking a college it's also important that you make your decision based off of what is academically best for you. A big problem amongst seniors picking colleges is which school will have the best "nightlife" or which school will have the best looking boys/girls. If you really think about it, 10 years from now you will be more concerned with the degree you got versus the partying you did with that really cute frat boy or srat girl. I mean honestly, you want someone better than Brad from Roar Omega Roar anyways.

After deciding where to go, based off of what is best for yourself, then you get to think about the freedoms. When you move off to college being free may be one of the best rewards, but also one of the worst. Being "free" doesn't necessarily mean really free.

Although you can stay out as late as you want and go wherever you want, you now have responsibilities and no mom/dad/grandma/grandpa/aunt/uncle to help you fulfill them. You can stay out late, but you still have to be awake for that 10 am (Side note: never take 8 AMs). You also may be excited to not have class everyday, or only a couple hours a day, but this does not always mean things will be easier. You may not have class on Wednesday, but you might need to be writing that 27-page case study that's due on Thursday.

College is nothing to be scared of, but it is also not something to joke around with! It is one of the best and most exciting times of your life, so really take time to make sure you love where you are going and are making the right choices. After all, it is your life!