College is the greatest experience in the entire world. You are finally free to make new friends, explore new places, and create a new name for yourself. When you first get to college, it feels as though you have an endless amount of time. However, as the end of the year is rapidly approaching it is important to keep these things in mind as you are preparing to say goodbye to the best year of your life.

1. Make New Friends

While I have established a set group of amazing friends, nothing is better than adding more people to that group. Try talking to people in your classes or to your neighbors in your living community. You might come to find that they are really cool people that you would want to continue hanging out with when you all come back from summer break.

2. Get A Summer Job

It is hard to think about what you are going to do when you are all alone over summer. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, try getting a job so you can irresponsibly spend your money on dinners with your friends next semester.

3. Be Thankful

It is important to thank everyone (and everything) that has helped make this first year amazing. It is tough leaving home for the first time, but nothing is better than meeting people who make us forget about missing home. It is time to let them know how much you love them for getting you through this year and making it the best. It can be a simple thing like hanging out with them more or going to dinner. Just do something to let them know how much they mean to you.

4. Start Studying

As painful as this might be to hear, finals are creeping up so you better start reviewing now. Studying can be annoying especially when you would rather hangout with your friends. Just remember if you fail a bunch of classes you won't be able to come back to school next semester. If that's not motivating then I don't know what is.

5. Spend Time With Your Friends

Let's be real, your friends are basically like family at this point. They have seen you at your best and your worst and still love you for it. Take as many pictures with them, go on adventures, and hug them while you still can. It is going to be a rough three months without them, but luckily you know that they are only going to be a phone call or text away.