We've all heard the term 'freshman fifteen' -- once you're out of your parents' house and you have a meal plan and total freedom, it stands to reason you might gain some weight. But with a little preparation and some support, you can get through your first year at school without stressing over the scale. These tips can help you out! 

1. Keep healthy stuff you actually like around

If you hate kale, you're not going to do anything but waste money and clutter your fridge by buying it. So stick with good-for-you snacks that you actually enjoy eating! 

2. Manage your schedule along with your diet

If you're not giving yourself a chance to eat breakfast (or lunch, or dinner) each day, you're probably going to reach for a fast food option when you finally have a second to snack and you're famished. Wake up early enough to get a real meal (no, iced coffee on its own does not count). 

3. Stay active

Many campuses have free gym memberships for students, but even if you never set foot in the gym, you can still be active! Walk from one class to another instead of catching the shuttle, take the stairs instead of the elevator to class or your dorm, or pick further parking spots so you can get more of a walk in. 

4. Get friends involved 

Not sure how to stay on track? Having a buddy or two who have the same health goals as you can be a real motivating factor. You can plan runs together, go out for healthy meals, or go grocery shopping as a group. 

5. Incorporate health into your classes

If you have the chance to take a fitness or nutrition class, you can get some motivation and more info about keeping your body healthy while knocking out a few credits! Now that's what we call a win-win. 

6. Don't stress too much

Staying healthy when you're away from home for the first time is important, but it's also crucial to remember that gaining some weight isn't the end of the world. If you're staying active, getting check ups, getting proper sleep and managing your stress, you're doing pretty darn well.