You’ll soon learn that your experience as a high school student and your experiences in college are completely different. For one, you no longer have someone to give you instructions and guidance each day. You have to become your own person, make your own decisions, and learn how to stay on track.

College is more than just a way to learn book knowledge so that you can get a good job — you also gain invaluable knowledge about how to live. This learning experience is amplified when you become a member of a fraternity or sorority in your first or second semester. Cherish every moment and use what you learn to become the best possible version of yourself; now and in the future. Remember these five tips to help you transition from your high school life to becoming a successful college student and eventually, a productive member of the Greek community.

1. Design Your Dorm Room for Comfort

There is a good chance that you’ll be spending most of your time in your dorm room at college, whether writing papers or hanging out with friends. This is amplified when you’re a member of a sorority or fraternity and living in the chapter house. So, when you’re transitioning from high school to college life, make sure that your dorm room will be comfortable with all of the necessities. Those necessities may include a desk and chair, a Greek afghan blanket (which could also double as an area rug or wall decor), writing utensils, and sorority or fraternity cups for your tea, hot cocoa, and ice water. And don’t forget a shelf full of snacks for late night study sessions! Your bedroom should be an extension of our personality — just as it was when you were in high school.

2. Be Prepared for the Freshman 15

Do you know why you gain about 15 pounds when you become a freshman in college? It’s because you go from eating minimalist high school lunches to full buffet style meals in college, courtesy of your paid meal plan. And those meals come three times a day with regularity. But just because you can pile on your plate at breakfast, lunch, and dinner doesn’t mean that you should. Make healthy choices in what you eat and only splurge on a few goodies once in a while.

3. Get Used to the Idea of Living in Close Quarters with Someone Else

You may have had to live with a sibling in your childhood home when you were in high school, but at least you had your own room. When you are in college you are going to have to get used to the idea of living in very close quarters with another person who is most likely a complete stranger. Be a good roommate: clean up after yourself, respect study times, and understand that everyone has different personalities.

4. Be Active in Your Fraternity or Sorority

One of the best ways to transition into college life, especially if you are going to be away from your high school friends and siblings for the first time is to join a Greek organization. One of the exciting things about going Greek is that you gain a new family while you’re away at college. You gain new brothers and sisters — a new community of people to stay in touch with. You also get to wear some cool fraternity or sorority paraphernalia while you’re on campus!

When you do join a sorority or fraternity, make an effort to be active and social. Make friends and be a genuine friend to others. This will help you to come out of your identity as a high school senior to an ambitious college student and eventually a full-fledged adult.

5. Enjoy Your Freedom, but Remain Self-Disciplined

For many college students, going away to university is the first chance they have to truly express their personal freedom. But sometimes that freedom can come at a cost — especially if you don’t have a sense of self discipline. Discipline includes setting a schedule for yourself and sticking to it. It’s having a time designated for work and a time set aside for fun. As you may have learned in high school, temporary decisions can have long term effects — be smart and resourceful.

It may take some time for you to mentally and physically transition from high school to college life. But it happens eventually, and you’ll be ready for the next adventure. Keep a positive mindset and join in with like-minded people so that you can make the best of those four or more years in college.For Greek merchandise, clothing, and home goods that you can be proud of and that will promote your organization for many years, shop GreekGear.com