As I head into my junior year of college, there are a number of things I wish I had known as a freshman. For anyone in college this may help you, and if you’re out of college, maybe you can relate.

1. You hear a lot of freshman roommate horror stories, but they may just turn into your best friend. But, if they don’t become your best friend, you will find your person or people.

2. You won’t like everyone and not everyone will like you.

3. I’ve noticed college is in no way like high school, so stop being judgemental now.

3. R-E-L-A-X, the small things won’t matter 5, 10, 15 years from now.

4. Apply yourself. Join organizations on campus and get involved. You’ll meet great people and make your college experience so much better.

5. College is practice for real life. It’s OK to make mistakes.

6. Go for positions or internships you don’t think you can get. You’ll surprise yourself with what you can do and what you can get.

7. NEVER. PUT. GUYS. BEFORE. YOUR. BEST. GIRL. FRIENDS. Some boys are temporary, friends are most likely forever. Chicks before _______.

8. Yes, spend your money but remember to try and save it too.

9. Remind your family often how grateful you are that they were able to send you to college, many people don’t have the privilege.

10. HAVE FUN. You only go to college once and it only lasts four years.

I know college is an exciting yet also nerve-racking time. If you’re an incoming freshman and you’re not going to your first choice, it will be OK, better than OK it’ll be GREAT. Try and keep a positive mindset, even if you have a number of worries. Trust me, I was hesitant and worried too, it’s normal.

When I visited Loyola University Maryland, I thought I was for sure going there. But, the world had different (better) plans for me. Honestly, Loyola didn’t give me any type of academic scholarship, and I didn’t want to put my family through that tuition.

I went back and forth between Quinnipiac and Loyola, but in my heart I wanted to go to Loyola. Heading into my third year of college, it’s nothing short of a blessing that I’m a student at Quinnipiac. I haven’t thought about Loyola once. So for everyone, go into college open-minded, you got this!

Best wishes!