It's finally here. There's nothing more satisfying than watching a countdown dwindle from double to single digits, to finally being able to say that in the next few days all you've been waiting for has arrived. That's right guys, it's finally time for us to go to college. While we may be taking our first official steps into freedom and adulthood, we're also closing a massive part of our lives and leaving a lot behind. It's exciting, of course. It's scary, to say the least. But before we get swept up into all that is being a college kid, there's a couple things we should think about.

First, and foremost, don't forget who got you here. Your family, friends, teachers, and role models deserve so much recognition for helping you to this point. While you were having your shining moments and suffering some devastating blows, they were your backbone. No one loved and supported you like they did. So don't just let them slide so easily. Call mom and dad (preferably within the first week or so, come on guys) and let them know how you are. Maybe you're not thinking of it right now, but they're losing their baby. Indulge them a little - you might miss them too. Check in on your old friends while they move in and on as well; in a couple months you'll come back to them and want to fall right into step and hear and share stories. You're about to make so many new friends and memories, but don't let that take away from what's already behind you. Spread the love.

Next, don't go too overboard. It's all new and exciting - a total sensory overload, I know. I'm right there with you. And like you I know we've all heard the warnings. Don't make a fool of yourself, don't use a physical map (phone's were invented for a reason, just download one!), and remember not to sign up for every activity there is. We all have some major adjustments to make here soon, and time management and pacing ourselves are going to be some of the biggest.

We have a lot of life to live, but we don't have to live it all in our freshman year. Try new things. Go out and have fun. Get lost going to class because of course you're going to. But above all else, keep cool and keep control. There's four years ahead of us, don't overdo yourself in welcome week.

And finally? Stay true to yourself. We're all about to experience these changes and definitely learn new things about who we are, but that doesn't mean pushing your comfort zone too far beyond it's limits. It's time for us to learn to accept change yet not stumble past our breaking points. And while I wish I could say for all of us exactly what that means, the truth is no one can. Who can tell what's going to come in our college adventure? There will be trials and tribulations by the score, but no way to know when or how or what. So as long as we remember to do what is best for us and to embrace the change, I think we'll be alright.

We're all in this together guys (High School Musical references are a must), and I know how scary/exciting this is. Better yet, I know we will all get through this with minimal injuries. Good luck Class of 2020.