Well the time is almost here. The time to say your final goodbyes to the only people you've ever known. The next step will take you to a brand new place with people you don't know and a journey yet untold. For the first time I will be leaving home and the more I express my emotions, the more I realize that I am not alone. And neither are you.

It's OK to be nervous.

We all are. Not just you. We're leaving behind the only life we've ever know and it's scary to say the least. Some of us are only going down the street, some a significant distance, some a plane ride away. But, no matter the distance, we are all going off into a new world. Be nervous. Just know that the people you've known all you life are still there. They aren't going anywhere. They'll be there when you feel like you're about to fall, and they will be there to catch you.

Be excited! This is the beginning of the rest of your life. It's the first step to making your career dreams come true. You have the next four years to make the most of your education. You finally get to take classes that mean something to you! There is light at the end of the tunnel. You can finally see the end in sight.

You are also about to meet so many new people. I know it's terrifying knowing you're probably going to a new place where you may not know anybody, or you may only know a few people. Either way, you're going into an uncomfortable situation. But, make the most of it. You will grow so much as a person, getting out of your comfort zone. You'll meet so many new people.

Have an open mind.

College is so different then high school. You'll have many new professors, clubs, friends, classes, and opportunities. Allow yourself to try new things so you can grow as a person.

To put it simply, going off to college is some scary stuff. It's a whole new world away from mom and dad. It's your first time out on your own. The first chance you'll have to really find yourself. Embrace it... and have a little fun!