The transition from high school to college is hardly easy. The personal freedom, heavy workload, stress of figuring out a career path, meal planning and plethora of tempting parties may come as a shock to first-year students.

If you feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Over half of students say high school did not teach them the skills and knowledge necessary to live on their own.

This summer, before you begin life as a college student, set yourself up for success by tackling these three easy tasks.

1. Invest in a good planner.

Time management is key to a successful first-year college experience. The freedom that comes with living on-your-own may be refreshing and one of the most appealing aspects of college, but it is also an easy way to lose a grip on academic success. It is possible to enjoy a thriving social life, find time to sleep and still perform well in your courses, but some serious planning is necessary. Investing in a planner is the best way to get the most out of your college experience– as long as you actually use it.

2. Prepare for dorm life.

For most, dorm life is much different than home life. Sharing a small space with another can feel suffocating, especially for those that enjoy some time alone to recharge. It’s important to mentally prepare for this change. Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns prior to moving in, and recognize that your roommate may share the same worries. But, also understand that your room belongs to your roommate just as much as it belongs to you. This summer, take the time to find individual activities that you can enjoy outside of the dorm room– like painting, walking or writing– to give yourself plenty of options for spending time with yourself away from a shared space.

3. Find comfortable walking shoes.

The amount of time spent walking your first year of college may come as a shock, particularly for those who attend large universities or who are not able to bring a car to campus. Walking from the dorm to class, from class to the dining hall, from the dining hall to the dorm for a power nap, from the dorm to the library, from the library to class– you see what I mean. You’ll easily be making your daily step-goals. Do yourself a favor, and find at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers, flip-flops– whatever works for you (and doesn’t give you blisters). You’ll thank me later.

One last bit of advice: go into college with an open mind. You may find yourself questioning everything from your major to your lifestyle, and that’s perfectly fine. College is a time for exploration and discovery. Take advantage of it!