Surviving freshman year as a girl feels like a whole new adventure. You are suddenly living on your own, without your parents reminding you to clean up, do your homework, or actually study. You might be sharing a space with complete strangers or even friends you have never lived with before. No one is telling you when to be home or where you can and cannot go. It is all up to you now. So, here are some tips from a former freshman who definitely learns a few things the hard way.

Tip Number One: Staying Clean and Organized
Staying clean and organized is a big deal now that you are on your own. Nobody is coming to clean your room, take out your trash, or wash your dirty clothes and dishes. It is all on you. This is especially important when you are living with other people. Nobody wants a messy roommate, especially in shared spaces like the kitchen and living room.

It can be tough if you have never really had to clean up after yourself before, but keeping your space tidy can save you from some very awkward conversations with your roommates. On top of that, staying organized can seriously help with school. Keeping a planner or notebook to track homework and tests makes a huge difference. You have to stay prepared.

Tip Number Two: Time Management

Stay on top of your assignments and do not wait until the last minute. Some people think they work better under pressure, but in college, when you have 6–8 classes, that strategy catches up to you fast, especially if you are trying to have a social life too. It is easy to get distracted by the party scene and suddenly realize you have fallen behind, but school should always come first. You have Monday through Thursday to stay on track, so use that time wisely.

Try setting aside time each day to focus on a different class. That way, when Friday rolls around, you can actually relax and enjoy your weekend.

Tip Number Three: Finding Who You Are Away from Home
You are finally given the freedom you have always wanted, with no one telling you how late you can stay out or where you can go. You get to make your own choices now, and that can be exciting and a little overwhelming. Use that freedom wisely. College is the perfect time to figure out who you are, what you like, and what kind of person you want to be. Try new things, meet new people, and step outside your comfort zone, but do not lose yourself trying to fit in.

Remember what your loved ones taught you and use that as your foundation while you grow into your own person. At the end of the day, you know right from wrong. Trust yourself.

Tip Number Four: Self-Worth

This one is probably the most important. As a girl, it is easy to lose sight of yourself when it comes to dating. Do not ever change who you are just to impress someone else. The right person will like you for you, not for who you are pretending to be. Self-worth is about knowing yourself and setting boundaries. If something does not sit right with you, speak up.

If someone crosses your boundaries, be strong enough to walk away.

That is what self-worth really is, choosing yourself and giving yourself the kind of love you deserve.

Tip Number Five: Finding Genuine Friends
The friends you make freshman year can teach you lessons the hard way or truly change you for the better. The real ones, the ones who stay by your side through every mistake, wipe your tears when you cry, and still hold you accountable when you are wrong, are your people. They do not just support you publicly. They check you privately and push you to be better. Finding friends who truly turn into family when you are far from home is so important.  Not everybody is your friend, and that is okay.

Some friendships you outgrow, but the genuine ones stick with you. Real friends can disagree and still remain solid. That is how you know it is real.

Tip Number Six: Getting Out and Getting Involved
If college feels boring, it may be because you are not getting involved on campus. There are so many different organizations to join, and getting involved in community service is not only great for your résumé, but also really rewarding. Campus events are one of the easiest ways to meet new people. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there.

Make friends, find study buddies, and build your circle. 

Tip Number Seven: Being Kind to Yourself
Freshman year is not easy. You are going to make mistakes, and there will be moments you wish you could take back. You cannot go back, you can only grow forward. Being kind to yourself is a process, but it matters. Speak light into your life, especially when you are feeling down. If you get a bad grade, do not give up. Study harder and ask for help. If things do not work out with someone, it is okay. If you lose friends, that might be part of your growth. College can be stressful and scary, but it also gets better.

You are still learning, still growing, and still becoming who you are meant to be.

Freshman year is a time of growth. It is okay to mess up. That is part of life. Always remember to be kind to yourself.