(May 2, 2013) — In a matter of a mere months, countless high school graduates will be heading off to college campuses, commencing a new chapter in their life. It’s such a beautiful moment as seniors walk across their graduation stage, with only the thought of what getting smashed at future school parties will be like. While it’s exciting to think about and get involved with the recklessness of “college life,” wasting away in your next four or so years isn’t worth the time (or money). For those going off to college in just a few months, let’s keep a few things in check. Let’s not get lazy with our grades. Just because you got into Harvard doesn’t mean that you have it made for those next four years; slacking off isn’t going to get you a job after graduation (although it will get you plenty of sleep). Take a walk and actually figure out where your school’s library lays; then sit there, open your overpriced textbook, and read. See those words mentioning something about social psychology or underwater basket weaving? It’s been quite some time since you’ve read actual sentences, huh? As far as getting involved with intense campus parties, I know it’s tempting, but it’s best not to go “cray” with the kegs and shots. Of course, who wants to be that awkward, dull party-goer who doesn’t even have a beer in his or her hands? Arguably, few. But nobody wants to end up in some random student’s dorm the next morning, trying to figure out what happened the night beforehand and where you are — not to mention how ravenous you are; hopefully whosever room that is happens to have snacks. But really, if you’re going to drink, do so responsibly and remember that everything is good in moderation. College isn’t a time to get crunk at Greek life parties every night. Figure out whether you’re a tortoise or a hare in the dating field. It’s no mystery that college is a hub of frisky adolescents, so make sure you know and are positive about whether you want to experiment with scandalous hook-ups or dedicated relationships. Let’s refer back to not waking up in a random colleague’s room; I don’t think he or she will plan on buying you dinner any time soon. Be aware of your food consumption. Some just can’t resist late night snacking on tempting processed, oily chips, or nomming on ramen for breakfast, lunch, dinner, second dinner, and so on. But they’ll regret it after realizing that the buttons of their jeans have started popping off. As my dear older sister once told me, “You will never be as skinny as you were in high school.” Try not to let the Freshman 15 hit you in the gut.