1. Be Open To New Experiences

Entering college, you are a stranger in a strange new world. You probably don't know anyone, and you might be far from home and lonely. Who could blame you for clinging to the familiar? Understand, though, that just about every new student is going through the same emotions that you are, so you should not be afraid of getting out there and meeting them. And if you are one of the kids who applied with a group of friends, it's great that you've found a way around the initial anxiety of school's first days, but your comfort is a double-edged sword. Don't be so comfortable with the high school crowd that you don't try some of the new experiences college has to offer.

2. College Is For Students -- Be a Great One

With all of the dorm high jinks and parties erupting everywhere, you might not feel that you've joined a community of scholars, but you have. Make sure you attend all of your class meetings and sections, and take notes. Not only will your professors and TA's love you for this, but you will be in a great position when you have to prepare for tests, papers, and exams.

3. Don't Procrastinate

There's so much to do, and so much fun to have. Don't let it overwhelm you. Make a study schedule for yourself and stick to it as best you can. There might be days when no studying gets done, but most days, you should spend a few hours staying on top of your assignments.

4. Join a Campus Organization

If you love to write, join the newspaper or magazine. If you're an actor, try out for a play. When you get out into the "real world," people will be interested in your GPA, but much like college admissions staffs, employers and graduate programs also like to see that people engaged in their college experience in some way on a passionate, personal level.

5. Visit the Career Services Office

Speaking of the real world, it's never too early to drop in at career services. A visit to your school's career center can help you focus your course of study to prepare you for an exciting career. You might also find out about internships.

6. Befriend A Reference Librarian

With the advent of Google, many students think that libraries are obsolete. Nothing could be further from the truth. When you have your first assignment that requires research, drop by the reference desk. Your librarian will show you a world of options for sourcing your papers and projects that will impress your professors.

7. Consider a Term Abroad

Many schools offer the opportunity to study in a foreign country.

8. Move around

We all know about the freshman fifteen. If you're diligently studying, they can creep up on you before you even realize it. Even if you don't engage in a hardcore workout program, move around. Go for a walk with a friend for a study break instead of staying in and ordering that pizza.

9. Eat Right

While pizza is okay sometimes, make sure a real vegetable passes your lips now and then. By taking care of yourself, you'll feel and think better.

10. Sleep

No doubt, you'll be very busy. To make sure you can keep up the hectic pace college demands, schedule some time to sleep. If you get exhausted, you won't think as clearly, and you won't have the energy you need to be excellent.