As a new, incoming freshman, many things change. The classes aren't always scheduled one right after the other and you don't have to take an 8 am class. You don't have parents telling you when to go to bed and you don't have the pressures of the high school gossip filling your head. Truth is, you're not going to know every single person on campus and that is perfectly fine, it's such a weight off of your shoulders. But, with so much going on you feel like no one else is on the same page. There are the common thoughts though that every student transitioning into college goes through.
1) Well, I guess this is lunch today.
Essentially there will be that day or two where the classes are rapid fire. For me, on Mondays my classes begin at 10:50 and don't end until 2:50. All the classes only have 15 minutes in between them. Easy to say, eating on a go is a must. And sometimes, all you have time for, is twizzlers.
2) 1 am is not late.
Whether it's to study for a test or to complete homework or just hang out with friends, a morning bird will become a night owl. The best thing to do is to find someone who has the same body clock- or circadian rhythm- as you. Remember to take I easy though. Staying out too late or studying too hard will make you ill. On average, it takes 3 weeks for your body to adjust to new waking up and sleeping schedules.
3) An 8 am class is tough.
You will have an 8 am class. And you will probably hate it. I have an 8 am class and this is the trick. Wake up an hour and a half before the class. It's torture, I know. What freshman wants to wake up at 6:30 am after spending 4 years in high school waking up at 5? If you're going to take an 8 am class, make it your major. It'll be a test to see if you really are committed to that major. You may drag your feet to that class but you should find yourself waking up during the class and focusing.
4) Free food.
Attend any and all events. They'll have free food, free music, and possibly even free t-shirts. This is to help you get by on the meal plan. There's something going on every night essentially.