All across the globe, freshmen have entered college. Collectively, they are freaking out over tests and study schedules, changing in the bathroom and wearing their keys on lanyards around their necks. Freshmen are sticking out across campuses and being dubbed as “freshies.” To end this monumental branding and put the fresh back into freshmen, I decided to embrace the upperclassmen. I asked them for a few pointers on how to survive the first year of college.

Erin Turvey ’12, Arlington, Va.: Get eight hours of sleep a night, especially during finals, that way you can better retain information and study more effectively. You can live life in two ways: know that you are going to get something done or freak out about it and get it done anyway. Either way, it will get done. Oh, and keep your door open because more people will stop by and say hi.

Emily Hisey ’12, Cockeysville, Md.: Balance is key. Everything will go smoothly if you learn to balance your education and social life.

Monica Dhaduk ’12, Lebanon, Pa.: No procrastination. Open your mind to a new lifestyle. Being independent is part of the college experience. Befriend your advisors; they are there to help.

Katie Graves ’12, Auburn, Mass.: Eat food. I switched my meal plans to have more DCB and keep extra money for food shopping. Don’t feel pressured to stick to your major. If you aren’t enjoying it, change your educational track. Most importantly, if you think someone is in trouble, go to the RA right away. It is for their own good, no matter what.

Colin Matter ’11, Kirkwood, Mo.: Try not to stress too much. It seems that people stress themselves out on purpose to get stuff done. Make sure you know your roommate; you don’t want a tool. Mountain Day is tomorrow, always plan on it.

-Erin Kreischer ’13, Juniata Online Journalist