17 Life Lessons Every Student Learns During Their First Year In College

New to college? This is all ahead of you.

Seasoned veteran? Take a moment to reflect on just how far you've come...

1. Your mam is usually right

You could have a difference of opinion... but in the end, you know you should have listened to her. Next time you're home to visit - try thanking her, it could earn you some free food for the journey home.

2. That test won't determine everything. No, really

STOP STRESSING! You've studied as much as you could, and you have to let it go. Plus first year exams never count towards anything anyway...

3. Being lonely is okay, and it is necessary

It's important to be alone and know how to live with it. In the end you'll learn a lot about yourself and it'll make spending time with new found friends much more enjoyable.

4. Laundry should get done more than once a month

Throw your laziness out the window and wash your clothes regularly. Not only is it hygienic, but then you'll always have your favourite yoga pants clean and ready to wear.

5. It's okay to treat yourself, even when you don't think you deserve it

Buy that cappuccino.

Sure, you didn't do that well on your essay earlier in the week, but you still deserve this. Listen to that voice in the back of your head whispering, "Treat yo-self".

6. Cereal is a snack - not a meal

Make proper meals that aren't 70% milk. For instance, these super-quick, healthy pancakes.

http://www.collegetimes.com/food/3-ingredient-recipe-will-life-hack-monday-133300

7. That overwhelming feeling of worry? Welcome to the world of anxiety!

Now the next step is learning how to channel and handle that anxiety. Doing things such as exercising, meditating and even washing dishes can help take your mind off whatever's worrying you.

8. USE A CONDOM

Even if you're on other modes of birth control... always use a condom. It's important to stay safe as condoms prevent sexually transmitted diseases as well as pregnancy – really, don't take any chances.

9. Exercise and eating right are important

You can only live off chicken goujons and chips for so long – start with little changes such as taking the stairs and swapping that chocolate bar for a banana instead, and the rest should follow naturally.

Remember, it's not so much about looking good as feeling good.

10. That boy won't matter in a year. Seriously.

You will meet loads of more interesting people throughout the year – and you'll laugh that you ever liked him in the first place.

11. Be kind to others

Always be kind to others – sit beside someone sitting alone in a lecture, who know's they might end up becoming your best friend?

12. You probably can't handle a dog just yet

I know they're cute but you would not be a great Dog Mom/Dad just yet – even if you've watched the entire series of Super Vet...

13. Taking time for yourself is crucial

Even if it's 10 minutes a day – read a book, give yourself a face mask, or write in your journal. Taking time to enjoy being with yourself is important for your mental health.

14. Saving money is hard... but worth it

Even if it's just €5 a day, on a good day, you'll be shocked at how much you'll end up with over time.

Plus it means you can buy something special or have a bit of extra cash for that holiday you've dreamt of for so long.

15. Wear your sunscreen.

Not to go all Baz Luhrmann on you here, but you're Irish, you're pasty – do yourself a favour. That farmer's tan is NOT a good look , get that SPF lathered on - your future self will thank you for it.

16. Keeping up with your loved ones back home is essential

Whether it's giving them a call or even tagging them in a funny meme – hint, CollegeTimes.com on Facebook, hint – let them know you're thinking of them.