Going away to college for the first time can be difficult.  Many college freshmen feel intimidated by the buildings and the course loads.  Similarly, it is common to feel uneasy about socializing, particularly if none of your friends are going to the same college as you.  For these reasons, many college freshman find themselves holing themselves up in their room and submitting to “survival mode” and just trying to get through the year.  On the other end of the spectrum, some get so caught up in socializing that they fail to keep their grades up to par and soon find themselves on academic probation.

Fortunately, your college experience doesn’t have to be that way.  In fact, there are a number of things you can do to do more than just survive your first year as a freshman – you can actually enjoy it and be a success as well.

The first thing you need to do is to set limits.  Set limits on how many parties or other activities you attend, set limits on the food you consume, and set limits on how many late nights you endure.  Many college freshmen overindulge themselves in all of these areas and soon find themselves missing classes, gaining weight, and having difficulty concentrating because they are so tired.  Determine what your limits will be before ever setting foot on campus and you will be more successful during your freshman year.

While it is important for you to set limits on your social life in order to make sure your grades don’t suffer, a part of the college experience is meeting new people and expanding your mind.  Therefore, you should by no means be a hermit.  You should also make it a point to get involved with your school and to get to know other students – just be careful that you do not take on more than you can handle.  Join study groups and get to know people as you further your education, attend sporting events whenever possible, and enjoy an outing or two.  Just be sure to keep your limits and mind and don’t step over them.

By striking a balance between setting limits and getting to know others attending your school, you will be able to get the most from your college experience and set yourself on the path toward a successful career at the same time.