As the first of my entire family to head off to a big -- no huge -- university, I am excited, nervous, and afraid all in one. I don't have the parents that met in college and have all the experience and guidance necessary to help me with the adjustment. I only have myself. Luckily, I'm independent and I can sort of guide myself, I guess. I love nature, and I want to travel. My plan at Florida State University...

The biggest thing I can say is to get started right away. Be aware of when applications for the schools you're interested in become...