10 Tips for college freshman

As I go into my second year of college, I'm reflecting back on the amazing first year I had. I learned so many lessons and made so many memories, I hope this article can help any incoming college students make the most of their university experience.

"Don't be afraid to be yourself".

1. Join Clubs. As the school year progresses and classes get harder, the one thing that kept me going was all of the clubs I joined. Through them, I made some of the best friends I could've asked for and it's also where my fondest memories stem from. Clubs give you a chance to break the routine of classes and branch out and meet new people.

2. Don't be afraid to make the first move. No, I don't just mean romantically. College is a step out of most people's comfort zones, but at the end of the day, it's a chance for growth. It's hard, especially for shy people, to be the first one to approach new people, but in college, sometimes that's how you meet the best people.

3. Friends change BUT family is forever. Not every friend you make in college will remain your friend, as they say, some people are just for a season. What's important, is to keep in touch with the people you consider family because they're who are going to stick by you through thick and thin. Sure, you may think your family bugs you, but it never hurts to send them a text or give them a quick call.

4. Go to college activities. So many people pass up the opportunities to go to their colleges various activities, whether it's trivia nights or sporting events. However, there is SO much free stuff! From t-shirts to water bottles, tuition to pizza. The prizes are endless and most of them are actually really fun. Some colleges even put on concerts, so make sure you don't miss your favorite artists!

5. Take time to take care of yourself. With the chaos that classes and life can bring, it's easy to forget that your health is important. Make sure to take time to have some downtime. Whether that's listening to music, going to the gym, spa nights. The possibilities are endless and you're body and brain will thank you later.

6. Clean your room! Sure, this sounds like something your mother would say, but it really makes a HUGE difference. It's easy to throw your things all around the room, but at the end of the day, that mess actually causes more stress. Subconsciously, your brain is less likely to focus on important task and will instead focus on the mayhem. Keeping things tidy provides for a more relaxing environment and leads to more focus and success.

7. Make your bed EVERYDAY! I know. Who wants to make their bed? However, I found that on mornings that I made my bed, I was a lot more productive. I watched a video that said making your bed tells your brain that you accomplished one task already which makes it easier to complete more, just like a snowball affect. You're also less likely to go and climb back in bed when it's all nice and neat.

8. Find fun study spots. Every college has hidden gems of study spots. Having a variety makes it nice for when you need a change of scenery while studying. (Trust me, you'll be doing a lot of studying).

9. Explore campus before classes start. One of the most helpful things for me was getting to know the campus before classes were in session. I walked around campus with a friend to find where our classes were which made it easier the morning of classes so I wasn't rushing around. Just make sure to take a buddy so you don't get lost.

10. Have fun! (Responsibly) College really does fly by, so don't be afraid to be yourself, make lots of fun memories, and work hard.