Graduating high school is a huge milestone in someone's life. Getting out of high school and finally being able to go to college is something that is extremely exciting. Here are five things I wish I would've known after I graduated high school and went to college.

1. Friends will come and go

Some of your best friends in high school may be going to different colleges, and some may be going to the same college. Either way, you some people will start to grow apart, and your daily text messages will become yearly birthday messages, if that. It is going to be sad, and you're going to miss their friendship, but people come in and out of your life for a reason.

Not all friendships will grow apart, and the ones that don't, you should put effort into, and tend to! College gets busy, and it's easy to check in on your friend, so make sure to make time for them.

2. College is amazing, but it should also be a learning experience

I know that college is said to be a once in a life time amazing experience, and it is! Don't get me wrong, but it is also a place of academics. You are spending thousands of dollars for a great learning experience so, don't waste your money if you are just going to go out and party. Parties are super fun, but learning is also important. Also, make sure you are paying attention to your mental health. College is stressful, and going to a party because you have FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) instead of taking care of school and yourself, is not the way to go. Keep your priorities straight!

3. Peer pressure is going to be there, don't be naive

I'm not going to lie to you and tell you that there won't be drinking and drugs, because there will be. Some of your friends are going to do those things, and some aren't, but you need to decide what's best for you. It is important to always watch out for yourself, and to follow your gut. Drugs and alcohol aren't for everyone, and you don't need them to have fun at a party. Also, no one cares if you don't do them! Many people have asked me and when I say no, they immediately say okay and move on! If your friend or someone continues to pressure you, they aren't your real friend and don't have your best interest in mind.

4. The buddy system is important!

Along with the parties, comes some dangers. Alcohol and drugs can make people do stupid things, and you don't want to be alone when they happen. If you go to a party with a group of friends, you need to stay with that group of friends. Period. If you decide to leave that group, you need to bring another person with you. Also, you shouldn't let anyone go off by themselves. Never let a friend be alone! This will help for the safety of everyone.

5. Live like there's no tomorrow

College is a once in a life time experience, and it goes by so fast. I feel like I was just beginning college 5 minutes ago! And here I am going into my junior year. College is time for you to start becoming independent and to learning for you are. You need to do what makes YOU happy. Your happiness should be one of your priorities. If you aren't happy, you need to change something!