I remember my first day as a freshman very vividly. As I walked through the doors on campus, I didn't know anyone, or what to expect. It was one of the most scary experiences I've ever had, but came out to be fulfilling and rewarding. I never thought I would learn or do so much within four years. High school is the place where all freshman, initially, walk in thinking "this is where I'm going to meet life long friends and build strong relationships." I mean why not right? That's what I thought! Who would have thought that, eventually, we'd get a second chance to do it all over again? I never thought I would, but now that we're here again as freshman, I encourage you all to do it a little different in the right way.

There are a few things that we should keep in mind as freshman: have a balance, make it count, and remember where you came from. Often times, I find myself repeating these three things in my head, because I know this is what my mom drilled to me every single day after high school graduation. I always saw it as her nagging, but now I see that these three things are key elements to surviving my first year. As you read this article, keep in mind this one simple question: what will you do with your second chance?

1) Have a Balance:

I've learned just from the first week that college is NOT a joke! It's nothing like high school at all, which is exactly why this is probably the most important key. You MUST learn to have good time management. It's okay to have your fun and hang out with friends, but there has to be an understanding. When will you do homework? When will you study? Will you have time for athletics (if you're an athlete)? Learn to prioritize and put you first. Also, it is DEFINITELY okay to simple say "no." Practice it!

2) Make it Count:

The number one reason why we came to college was to get a good education for the betterment of ourselves and our futures. Never lose sight of that! Get involved, go out, make new friends, live a little.... in a tasteful manner of course. This is the time where we will finally meet life long friends and make those connections. YOU dictate your future right now. What are you gonna do with your second chance? Live everyday like your last always and "make it count."

3) Remember Where You Came From:

Never lose yourself or your identity. I love the quote from Dr. Seuss that says "today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you." Even if you don't remember this cheesy line, remember God made you special in his likeness and creation because He saw fit. Enjoy your college experience, but never forget what brought you here in the first place. Don't change yourself for others or to be like others. Be you because at the end of the day, that's all you can be.

Now, I ask you again: what will you do with your second chance at being a freshman? I hope everyone has a great year and I certainly can not wait to start my journey as a first year college student.