There is nothing better than walking around my college campus because I feel like a grown-up ~ even when I reached my eighteenth birthday, I never really felt like I had reached any age milestone because I still felt like a little kid. I never did become a rebellious teenager or restless young adult. Even when I walked onto my college campus as a freshman, I cringed at leaving my house and entering a dark, unknown world. How exactly could I survive without living with my parents?

I remember how I sat on my new purple bedspread and wondered how I should begin my first day as a college student. I didn’t even know my class schedule. My father’s advice: “You know something? I may have been scared or sad, but I sat on my bed for a couple of minutes and got up. I met some people…”

I sat on my bed for more than a couple of minutes, but growing up isn’t exactly optional. I began living a new life and I suddenly found myself liking my newfound independence. I could finally enjoy what I had worked so hard for ~ after all, I had always dreamt of attending college.

I can’t say I didn’t experience hardship or embarrassment, but just keep swimming like I did and you may even surprise yourself. Of course you’re going to have to find your own way, but here are some tips that just might come in handy.

Steps for Survival:

1.                   Sign up for a roommate.

2.                   Grow a backbone. Don’t let anyone, especially a roommate, walk all over you.

3.                   Act confident. Even if you are not feeling particularly confident, dig deep.

4.                   You will make friends ~ never cling to anyone because you think otherwise. Your time and energy should be spent on someone who is worthy of your friendship.

5.                   Playing a sport or being a member of a club will garner positive attention.

6.                   Stay active. Be proactive and forget about gaining weight.

7.                   Changing your major is perfectly acceptable.

8.                   You will attend college parties and have fun, but remember why you came to college. Your parents are paying for your education and so keep your partying to a respectable minimum.

9.                   High school drama is so over. In short, don’t gossip.

10.               You may not like college life at first, but never give up. Stick it out ~ trust me, things will get better.

As for what to bring . . .

Your dorm room is tiny and you simply cannot bring that pile of clothes you will never wear. Making the most of your room is a must. Here are a few other do’s and don’ts:

Do bring a shoe rack. You will need every inch of your closet.

Don’t bother buying your college’s bedding package. You can find what you need at a much lower cost.

Do buy plenty of storage containers.

Don’t forget hangers.

Do remember computer cords, chargers, and extension cords. Oh, and your computer, too.

Don’t forget bringing ear plugs. Snoring or loud music will not help you sleep better.

Do bring wall art, pictures, and/or posters. Bare, white walls are depressing.

Don’t leave home without bringing a rug for your room. A rug will give your room a home-sweet-home vibe.

Now that you have somewhat of a checklist, you should be looking forward to your college adventure! Your biggest step is overcoming any fear or anxiety because college is where you will learn about yourself. You will live without your parents’ footsteps behind you and you can find out what you are truly passionate about ~ So get ready for a great adventure.