BY CHRISTIANNA CASALETTO // SEPT. 14, 2015 //

Hey, you! You’re a freshman, right?

We know the transition from high school into college can be difficult at times, but have no fear. Here are five basic tips to help you not only survive, but thrive during your first year on campus:

1. Always wear shower shoes

This one takes a lot of getting used to but trust us, it’s important! Communal showers mean communal foot fungus. Wearing shower shoes keeps your feet clean from anything that could be living on the bathroom floors.

2. Set a timer for your laundry

Not only is this basic laundry room etiquette, but it will also prevent your clothes from being moved around. People WILL pull your clothes out and set them somewhere else. Setting an alarm keeps the laundry room running smoothly and allows you to keep track of your clothes.

3. Wake up for your alarm

PHOTO BY MATTHEW, CREATIVE COMMONS

Yes, we know your TempurPedic mattress pad is super comfy and your $200 Urban Outfitter’s comforter is a cloud, but sleeping in and skipping that 8:30 a.m. class is a temptation you should definitely avoid. One day doesn’t seem like much, but a lot of class material can be discussed. This includes what to expect on tests, changes in due dates, etc.

4. Don’t forget your keys

There’s nothing worse than being locked out of your room. It’s an annoyance to everyone around you: your roommate, your Residence Assistant, your Community Director, and even Public Safety. Leave your key attached to your lanyard so it’s in the same place as your I.D. Another suggestion is to put a hook for your keys right next to your door, that way you walk past it anytime you leave your room.

Or, just wear it on a necklace and you’re one step closer to being Zoey Brookes from “Zoey 101.”

5. Stay organized

Staying organized is the easiest way to succeed academically. Staying organized can include using a planner (the college has some available in the AEC, located above the Levin Library), making to-do lists, and coordinating your folders and notebooks by class.

Good luck during your first year of college, and remember: This is one of the best (and easiest) times of your life!