A Note To Freshmen

As the school year is very near (some have already started), here is some advice that I have come up with to help you survive your first year of high school or college.

1. Get acquainted with campus. You're likely going to a place that is much bigger than where you last went to school, and thus, are probably a little intimidated. Don't be. Scout out campus and know where things are. Everyone can spot someone who looks lost, and lost people are likely freshmen.

2. Be confident. Walk with your head up. Look like you know what you are doing (that way, people won't push you around). Realize that while, yes, this is a new experience, it's still just school, and you've been going there for the vast majority of your life.

3. Meet new people. The more friends you have the better. There is strength in numbers. You can't have too many friends or at least people you don't mind talking to. High school and college kids are much more mature than your last school experience, and your good friends will watch out for you.

4. Study hard, party hard. Yes, partying and hanging out with friends is fun. But realize why you're at school: to get an education. Don't waste your or your parents' money by failing your classes. (High school kids: I know what you're thinking, "My parents don't pay." Yes, they do, it's called taxes.) and trust me, the harder you work during the week, the more rewarding that party and socialization is on the weekend.

5. It's okay to be afraid. We all have fears. We all get over them. The first time you rode a rollercoaster you were probably shitting your pants constantly asking what you have gotten yourself into. Two minutes later, the ride is over, and you want to go again. The same thing happens to school.

6. Most importantly, have fun. These are the best four years of your life up until that point. You will have so many memories that it's almost ridiculous. Plus, if you have to spend four years of your life doing it, why not have fun while doing it?