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So you’re starting college. Talk about a major life change! Whether you’re attending a traditional college campus or an online university, these will be some of the most formative years of your life. What you study, the friends you make and the experiences you have will shape your future. No pressure, right?

Really, it’s not. Relax, and enjoy your college years. For starters, you have to understand that college is not high school. What you did in high school, who you were friends with—none of that really matters any more. College is your chance to get a fresh start and explore what makes you who you are. Do you enjoy basketball but were never quite good enough to make your high school team? Join an intramural team at your school. Are you interested in art but could never fit the class into your high school schedule? Take an evening art class or join an art club. The options are unlimited. Look at online resources such as EarnMyDegree.com to learn more about your choices.

Beyond these experiences, college is your opportunity to prepare for the real world after graduation. That may seem serious and daunting, but think of it like this – there are very few experiences in life where you get to do a trial run before it really counts. Think of college as your trial run for life. The organizational skills you develop to keep track of your assignments will serve you well the rest of your life.

If you’re living away from home, you’ll also learn all those skills you need for daily living—things like laundry, cleaning and maybe even grocery shopping and cooking. These things may not sound like fun, but they are necessary.And of course, you’re going to college to learn. So go with an open mind and experience what might be the greatest joy of all – absorbing all that wonderful knowledge.