Take care of yourself when on your own.

Freshman year can meet expectations

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Posted: 8/7/08

College is an exciting time for most. Millions of freshmen are thrilled to be moving out from their parents' nest into new environment. And why not? You get to live with your friends and make your own decisions. Here are a few general tips on making your freshman year as amazing as you always thought it would be.

Explore the campus. Athens is one of the country's most beautiful college towns. Hop on the campus bus and take a look around.

Attend events and be social. You may have been shy in high school, but now you have an opportunity to come out of your shell. All you have to do is step outside your dorm room and stay open-minded.

Take care of yourself. Just because your parents are no longer down the hallway telling you to go to sleep at 1 a.m. doesn't mean that you can't use common sense. Certainly have fun, but try not to put yourself in precarious positions with your health (or the law).

Don't let anyone destroy your experience. In the end, your college years are what you make them. Savor every moment you have here, and try new things. Stay responsible and keep in mind that your education comes first, you won't leave with regrets. You only get one undergraduate experience, so make sure to enjoy it.

- Robert Burns is a variety writer for The Red & Black.