'Always use condoms: Many STIs are treatable but not curable'

It’s usually around this time that I’m asked to share any advice I might have for the newest college freshers and I look over my shoulder, panicked, searching for a Real Adult in the vicinity. 

Since I’m guessing “take it easy on the tequila” and “use a condom, idiot” aren’t exactly inspiring — although both necessary, I might add — I’ll try and condense some of my hard won wisdom for this column.

Manage your expectations: Freshman year is a bit like New Year’s Eve — there’s far too much pressure to have ‘the best time ever’ which usually means it’s a let-down in reality. Teen movies have led us to believe that our first year of college will be a 24/7 party. Actually, it can feel daunting and overwhelming and scary — and that’s OK. Leaving home for the first time is a huge change. It’s completely natural if it takes you time to adjust.