• Grades matter. You'll hear from plenty people around you that freshmen grades don't matter to schools, and they'd be somewhat correct if you hope to attend a public university like those in the UC system. For those that aspire to attend elite, private institutions like Harvard, Stanford, Penn, keep on top of your stuff and don't let your freshmen grades slip. A strong start is a good indicator of an even stronger finish.

 

• Develop a strong work ethic now. If you don't know, find out. Go on Quora, read books, ask your smart friends, but don't be passive in this matter as a freshman. Sure you can get through freshman year with a weak work ethic, but you sure as hell don't want it to bite you back during sophomore/junior year, when it REALLY counts.

 

•  Your environment plays a big role in your studying environment. You can go to the library or a local cafe if you want, but if you lack a means of transportation, your room is just fine. Make your bed, organize your closet, file those messy papers, etc. Take proactive steps to create an environment that's conducive to learning.

 

• Work on a desk, not a bed. A bed is for sleeping.

 

•  Get at least seven hours of sleep a night. I'm not kidding. There's a reason everyone tells you to get enough sleep. Coming from someone who got 5's on all five AP exams taken junior year (I don't mean to brag, just to add credibility and weight to my argument), I could NOT have done it without getting 8 hours of sleep every night in the week leading up to exams. Sleep clears your mind and allows for better retention of information. Exhaustion is a sign of chaos, not a badge of honor.

 

• Pre-planning is everything. Keep a journal nearby or use Google Calendar, it doesn't matter, just make sure you have a list of things you want to accomplish for every single day. An hour of planning will save you hours of procrastination during the day/week.

 

• Start reading. Not fiction, but books that expand your horizons and add to your personal development. Some books to start you off include Freakonomics by Stephen Levitt and Leaders Eat Why by Simon Sinek (one of my biggest role models).

 

• Exercise is more important than you think. It contributes to the growth of your brain cells and clears out cortisol, the stress hormone. I can't tell you how many times an evening run or a trip to the gym has helped me be more effective at my work. You may not want to do it, but your brain needs you to do it.

 

• You might have heard this, but there's a saying I think there's a lot of truth behind: you're the average of the five people spend the most time with. Find the group of people that fits your interests, needs, and ambitions, and you'll naturally find yourself being pushed in the right direction.

 

• I'll end on a positive note, with a quote that I try to live by everyday: “Some people make your laugh a little louder, your smile a little brighter and your life a little better. Try to be one of those people.”

 

• There, I'm done. You can do this. I promise.