10. Don’t drive to classes (or on Lindsey street)

Just don’t. Norman traffic is crazy. Pedestrians are crazy. Bicyclists are crazy. Just walk, it’ll save you money.

9. Be prepared for Football games

Sunscreen, water and Sooner spirit. Tickets may be expensive but go to a football game.

8. Mentally prepare yourself

College isn’t like high school. Classes are more difficult and some professors don’t take attendance. Show up to class.

7. Organize your time

A planner may save your academic and social life. Plan when you’re going to finish homework, exercise and have fun. Check out the free planners given away on campus.

6. Get involved

OU has over 400 active registered organizations. Think only overachievers join clubs? Check out some non-traditional clubs including Cake Day, Hogwarts on Campus, Friends of Friends or GLBTQ.

5. Take advantage of Free

OU has several “free” opportunities. Free food, free clothing, free pens, free free free. University College has tutoring services, seminars, everything to help your studies. And guess what? It’s free.

4. Use SafeRide and SafeWalk

It’ll save you money (hello, gas is almost $4 a gallon) and keep you safe. Who likes being paranoid at night, anyway?

3. Live in the dorms

Living in a dorm, with roommates, is like making instant friends. Use the dorm as a networking device to find friends. You never know who loves your “Dr. Who” and “Mad Men” references.

2. Your meal points are golden

Don’t let upper classmen take advantage of you; take advantage of them. Your meal points can be used as a bartering tool. Upperclassmen will do just about anything for meal points.

1. Avoid the bike lane

If you value your life, and the lives of others, avoid the bike lane on the South Oval. Bicyclists, and anyone on wheels, have their own lane for a reason. Respect their space or you’ll get run-over. Literally.