One minute you’re 10 years old daydreaming about college, rocking university hoodies, pinning pennants to your bedroom wall, and fantasizing about being free as an adult with no parent supervision. The next, you’re knee-deep in junior year, crafting your personal statement and trimming down your list of dream schools.

Fast forward a little more, and it’s Decision Day.

Suddenly, you’re expected to make one of the biggest choices of your life, signing on the dotted line for a future you’re still trying to wrap your head around, while everyone cheers and says “Congrats!”

Becoming a rising college freshman is a whirlwind. Just when you’ve mastered the high school game, you’re back at square one, starting over at a brand new school, possibly in a brand new city or state.

Cue the anxiety. The uncertainty. The overwhelming sense that you’re diving into adulthood headfirst: budgeting, job hunting, living on your own… and, oh yeah, trying to succeed at school all at the same time. It’s a lot. So, how do you survive the pressure?

In a perfect world, you’d have a personal guide by your side 24/7, whispering the answers to life’s big questions and steering you in the right direction. Tempting, right?

Well, dream’s over and it’s time to wake up.

Here’s the good news: You’re not the first to walk this path.

Plenty of students have faced these same challenges and made it through. So before you panic, take a deep breath and listen up.

We asked some seniors at San Diego State University to share the real, unfiltered advice they wish they’d heard when they were in your shoes.

Here’s what we got:

Q: What should freshmen take advantage of?

A: “Find ways to get involved. Follow clubs on Instagram and talk to people already in the club to find out if it’s something you’d be interested in. If you don’t see yourself fitting in somewhere, then create something.” – SDSU senior, Mckenna Dougherty

A: “Being part of a community makes your college experience so special. Join at least one club that you’re interested in. It’s an easy way to make friends and meet people with similar interests. There are so many other options too, like intramural sports teams, interning with SDSU, Greek life, attending sports events, associated students, etc!” – SDSU senior, Ariana Daneshmand

A: “Make use of everything SDSU offers, like going to office hours, using the career center, and joining clubs or organizations. It’s a good way to meet people and build connections. I would also say to try different classes, too, even if they are outside your major. It really helps you see what you really like.” – SDSU senior, Yazeed Samaenah

Q: What should freshmen be aware of, specifically in terms of safety?

A: “I think students should always be aware of walking anywhere on or near campus at night. It’s important to have a buddy to walk with at night, even though the school is pretty safe.” – SDSU senior, Ariana Daneshmand

A: “Use the campus safety escort if you’re walking late. My biggest piece of advice is to download the SDSU Safe app since it is really helpful.” – SDSU senior, Yazeed Samaenah

A: “This goes for any situation or location, but it is extra important to prioritize in a larger city. Also, a rule everyone should follow is to never leave your friends alone when going out and to protect one another to have a fun night.” – SDSU senior, Fatima Perez

Q: Are there any campus restrictions for freshmen?

A: “Having a vehicle is unfortunately not allowed for freshmen. You should try to bring a car down after that. I’ve used mine from sophomore through senior year.” – SDSU senior, Mckenna Dougherty

A: “Yes, most freshmen have to live on campus their first year unless they get an exemption. Also, if you live on campus, you usually can’t have a car unless you have a special reason. I personally never had an issue with getting around San Diego since the MTS was very accessible and takes you to most places.” – SDSU senior, Yazeed Samaenah

Q: What would you do differently if you could start over?

A: “Make the most out of your time here. Pay more attention in your classes.” – SDSU senior, Mckenna Dougherty

A: “I would probably take more advantage of the turtle pond and grass areas to lay out and relax in between classes. It’s a beautiful campus, and you should be able to enjoy it even if you’re not actively in class.” – SDSU senior, Ariana Daneshmand

A: “I’d definitely get more involved earlier, go to more events, talk to professors, and try getting internships sooner. Time goes by fast, and it helps to start figuring things out early.” – SDSU senior, Yazeed Samaenah

A: “If I could start over again, I would definitely join more groups and clubs on campus, even if it means going alone. These are great places to make connections and learn early on about the career path that you want to go into.” – SDSU senior, Fatima Perez

And for my last piece of advice: You’re always going to figure it out.

You are on your own path that works for you, so don’t let what others are doing discourage you from accomplishing your goals.