Learn how to relax, because the party machine in you is eventually going to die out, and take it from me, it should.

Please pardon my cliché, but it seems like it was just yesterday when I was basking on my lower bunk in West Tower, reading a magazine and trying on outfits for my upcoming night prowling the streets. I was usually in search of a keg to pump, a boy to kiss and, eventually, a really greasy Gyro to devour in less than five minutes.

Now, four years later, I shutter at the thought of beer out of a keg, I’ve had one fabulous boy for two years that I can kiss whenever I want and eating late night Gyros gives me heartburn.I always say freshman year was the best year of my life, and it truly was. I had no worries, no job and no bills to pay.

Below is a list of things that you should realize before you actually have to start thinking about the real world.

1. Turning 21 does not just mean you can buy beer. I barely remember the weekend of my favorite birthday, and with good reason. I had an insane amount of fun, almost too much fun. But all the days after that and up until now come with a bit more responsibility. I have two jobs, go to school full-time and barely have any time to go out any more.
   
   The best thing about being over 21 are those nights sitting on the couch with my favorite bottle of red wine, wearing sweatpants and watching Sex and The City reruns. Learn how to relax, because the party machine in you is eventually going to die out, and take it from me, it should.

2. You will have to get a job, and that means you have to be responsible and reliable. If it’s not a job it will be an internship. You need to start building contacts. Ever hear the expression, “It’s not what you know it’s who you know”? Start taking that literally. Swap out the thousands of phone numbers of random girls/boys you have in your phone and replace them with your boss, his assistant and even your R.A. These people may help you take that next step in your adult life.

3. You can only take advantage of the cafeteria when you live in the dorms. When you move out, you are on your own in the meals department. I suggest you get a sauté pan and learn how to use it. Are you a Lean Cuisine Queen or a Hot Pocket Prince? Cut that crap out and start eating healthy. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains will give you the kind of energy you need to get through the busy days that are sure to come your way. Surviving on Hot Pockets (which are full of chemical-laden preservatives) can only lead to disaster in the long run.

4. Do something by yourself, and I’m not talking about taking a shower. Ever think about going to a movie by yourself or just taking a walk? You don’t always need a friend with you. Don’t you think it’s about time to stop getting to know everybody else and take some time getting to know who you are? Go and get breakfast at Beans and Barley or catch a matinee at The Oriental. Independence is a highly respected virtue.

5. Learn how to fight. Fights are bound to happen when you live with a roommate. Take it from a girl who regrets fighting with her roommates. Those fights were stupid and petty, and even though we thought we were mature adults, looking back we weren’t. Practice civility by trying to have a real conversation about what is bothering you. Sit down at the table and actually look at each other to talk it out. No AIM, no Facebook and no e-mail. Do you really want to lose a friend over something you won’t remember in a year?

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