Dear 18 year old Paige,

1) Stop panicking about college. Freshman year will suck, and you will be fine anyways. Spend lots of time in the English department and make friends there. Don't hide in your sorority.

2) Mom and Dad are not perfect. They'll figure it out on the way, just like you will. Just keep being an adult, and know that they'll work it out sooner rather than later. Be nice, though.

3) Don't buy a bunch of crap for your dorm. Just because you live in a dorm doesn't mean you have to run out and buy all the plastic shelves at walmart. Just take the essentials, and buy what you need when you get there. Do bring a microwave.

4) Knock it off with whatever you think you should be doing with boys. Trust me when I say- you are always more interesting and do more interesting things when you aren't worried about a boyfriend. It's time to expand on the list of things to be passionate about. Try travel, and writing. You'll like those just as much.
                        4a) Don't let boys buy you pets. Seriously. Just don't.

5) Recognize that everyone has problems, and yours are not any more special or painful. That isn't to say that they aren't legitimate, but they are not excuses to feel better than anyone else. Or to allow for unkind behavior. Get your shit together sooner than later, then help someone else with theirs.

6) Give up crying sooner. I promise you, there are maybe 3 or 4 times really worth crying until you turn 21. There are a lot better ways to cope, and you don't need the validation or attention. If you must cry, don't do it in front of people. Learn to take care of yourself.

7) It wouldn't hurt to get up a little earlier and put on some makeup while you watch the news. Drink some orange juice while you do it. These mornings are infinitely more therapeutic than you would expect.

8) Don't go to the high school stereotype party. Or go, but don't hold any alcohol. Or just stay in the house. Actually, ignore all that. Just save up a lot of money beforehand, and resolve yourself to tell mom and dad sooner.

9) Stay healthy. Recognize that your sugar addiction is going to be an issue your whole life, but the sooner you start to fight it the better. Be kind to yourself. Don't be afraid to go to yoga alone, you'll love it.

10) Remember to find time to do the things you did in high school that you loved. In 3 years, you'll be sad you didn't take more pictures, and shocked to realize your music taste has steadily declined.