So, you’ve been accepted. That is a genuinely exciting time in anyone’s life. Pat yourself on the back; give yourself a big, “Congratulations!”

When you get to school, however, it is time to get busy, your chance prove to everybody that you’re worth it. But, this is not a popular option; it’s not going to win you anything, it won’t get you invited to parties.

But contrary to what you’ve heard and all you’ve imagined, college is not-nor was it ever meant to be-just like the movie, Animal House.

Don’t get me wrong, though. College is fun, you should enjoy yourself. Limits should be put on the partying, however, so you can get your work accomplished. But, when the work is done, it is time for fun!

To make the most of it, you should become a social butterfly. You are going to encounter a lot of new and interesting people, both guys and girls. So, you should definitely be the first one to introduce yourself, when the opportunity arises.

Next, get involved. Find a club, join a group, become a part of something worthwhile. You might even check out the college’s Student Government. “But, I’m not a government type of person,” you say.

Who is? It’s a student organization, run by students, for students. Believe it or not, things like that impress professors. You wouldn’t think they care about that stuff, but they know. And it is often reflected in the grade they give you.

When you go through registration, DO NOT over-load your schedule. Three classes Monday/Wednesday/Friday and two on Tuesday/Thursday might seem like a piece of cake, but don’t be fooled. That amounts to fifteen hours and is huge. If you take that many hours, you will hardly ever get a break.

Go for twelve hours while you are new. You will still be swamped with reading anyway, but at least you won’t be overwhelmed.

Last, don’t skip or “blow off” a lot of classes. Every once-in-a-while, it’s okay to miss class, just don’t make a habit of it.

That is only four things, but each one will do you justice. It’s only four, but keep and abide by those four, and you’ll be very glad you did!

• be friendly