It feels like just last week I was packing up all my clothes and heading to Southwest amidst a haze of sweat and nervousness for my first semester at college. I recall being a wound-up ball of anxious energy as I had no clue what my college experience would be like. Now, as I start the last semester of my senior year, I am constantly reflecting on the entirety of my college experience and how this journey has gone. While I consider a vast majority of my time here at UMass an immense success, there are a few things I wish I had known beforehand to make my experience a bit smoother. I have compiled a list of a few things you should keep in mind while navigating your college career to help make your experience even better.

Although it may seem like final exams are a long way away for you, we're exactly a month away from them here. As a freshman I somehow convinced myself that I had plenty of time to learn my class material only a week before exam time. I HIGHLY recommend not being like me. Instead of pushing all the work off till last minute (yes, I know it's fun to watch Netflix instead of actually being productive), get started on your work early.

Looking to visit some amazing museums close to campus? Well look no further! I have compiled a list of a few must-see museums in the Amherst region that will be sure to wow you. These top-notch institutions are not only cheap and close, but have many amazing works on display year round!

Going home for a weekend may be the last thing you want to do once finally getting back into the swing of life at school, but it can actually be a helpful experience! My freshman year, I had fully convinced myself that going home would inhibit my ability to acclimate to college life, when in fact the opposite is true. There were times I just needed to see my family, friends, and simply sleep in my own bed! These short weekends at home helped put things in perspective and cured the slight homesickness I was feeling.

One of the hardest parts of college is learning to live on your own. It was daunting at first (realizing how many things I would have to conquer on my own). Making new friends, having fun, and juggling classwork were all issues constantly floating around my mind. No longer would I have my mother and father to constantly rely on whenever I needed them; it seemed I was completely on my own. To help you out, using my experience, I have compiled a list of important things to remember to do when first living by yourself!

New to the UMass dining experience? Don’t forget to utilize your dining plan and check out ALL of the choices offered at not only the four traditional dining halls, but the various other food options scattered around campus. One of the most popular options is Blue Wall, which is located in the heart of the Campus Center and offers several unique restaurants and markets that are sure to please anyone! Below is a detailed list of eateries located within Blue Wall and the types of intricate cuisine they offer students and guests alike!