Your first week will be weird. You will get homesick. But don't let the butterflies around the new environment get in the way of your experience!
1. Sit in your dorm all day
This is absolutely #1 on your list of do-nots. As hard as it is to put yourself out there, it is an absolute must. You simply can't have the great college experience you want by ignoring your campus.
2. Ditch class
Don't forgot, we are here to get that diploma. C's get degrees is a common phrase, but should not be your goal. Attendance is key. At small schools especially, teachers will start to take notice if you aren't there. Just get up and go.
3. Eat every meal in your dorm
Dining halls are usually gross. That's just the way it is. However, eating subpar meals together is a typical experience all freshman should get. The dining hall is a great place to meet friends, or hang out with your current ones.
4. Ignore clubs
In college, you have so much more free time than you did in high school. Take advantage of that! Find what you're passionate about through clubs and activities, or maybe just go to a few to make some friends who may share common interests.
5. Go home on the weekend
I know you miss your dog. But no matter how homesick you are, if you can stick through it and stay on campus you won't regret it. This is why we have facetime. And I promise, the time until you get to see your family and friends will be here in no time.