So you aren’t gods but you are freshmen and while you may be the lowest rung on the totem pole you have been imbued with special powers afforded uniquely to first-year college students.

Your first year of college will undoubtedly be one of the most liberating and empowering experiences of your life so there is a very rigid set of rules for properly enjoying this school year.

The first rule is do your homework and go to class. At no point in your college career should a hot date or a once-in-a-lifetime concert be valued less than a summary assignment. If it’s something small just write an email to your professor saying you had the flu and go do something more soul enriching, that always works.

The second rule is to smile at everyone. If you see someone on the street smile at them and tell them to look out for the car coming at them. If you bump into a buddy at Starbucks smile at them before you burn your mouth with a dark roast. For every smile you put out into the community there is a tangible effect on the environment of Linfield.

The third rule is to exercise. I am sure you have heard of the freshmen 15, and I can assure you that it is not a myth. You might start feeling overwhelmed, and to cope you begin eating Lay’s Potato Chips and binge watching Netflix for hours on end. Instead, you might want to consider taking a break from everything by doing a refreshing workout. You can use the fitness room, weight room, pool or gym in the HHPA. Try walking or jogging on the track or on the Wellness Trail. Remember, exercise increases your endorphins and endorphins make you happy.

The fourth rule is do not ever listen to upper classmen. Just because they have been here for a few years does not mean that they know anything more about college than you. In fact be suspicious of everyone older than you. Odds are they are just trying to trick you. Upperclassmen are a shifty bunch and while they are closer to a degree than you are do not confuse that for wisdom.

The fifth and final rule is to take breaks and risks, but not too many. Sometimes it’s best to just close the textbooks and shut down the laptop. Make time for going out and hanging out with friends. College is not only a time to continue your education, but also a time to make life-long memories and friends. When it is time to walk across the stage and hold your diploma, you will reflect on your college experience. Make sure you leave with no regrets.