Before going off to school, many a conversation between my friends and me would revolved around the infamous "freshman 15."

Co-workers of mine that were already in college told me that I would surely gain weight, like them, due to the convenience and omnipresence of junk food.

However, as the year went by, I didn't gain weight at all.

In fact, I actually lost weight. Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not going around advising that everyone should lose weight, but it certainly doesn't hurt to have a more active, healthier lifestyle.

Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

1. Walk

As you know, Penn State has a huge campus, but skip the Loop and take advantage of the nice weather (while it's here, that is). After all, walking is a great cardiovascular exercise. Even taking the stairs, as opposed to the elevator, helps out.

2. Eat smart

Resist the temptation to overload your plate at the all-you-can-eat buffet that is the dining commons. Many students have a tendency to pile on the food as if they're never going to see it again. Remember, you can always go back for more.

3. Snack light

Carry healthy snacks with you to have between classes if you're hungry. If you don't have junk food with you, then you won't be eating junk food.And don't keep too many unhealthy foods in your room, either. If it's there, you'll eat it.Trust me.

4. Drink water

It's always a good idea to carry around a bottle of water with you. It not only comes in handy when you're thirsty during class, but helps to keep you hydrated and flushes out your system.

5. Catch some sleep

If this isn't the pot calling the kettle black, then I don't know what is. Even though sleep isn't one of my priorities, it should be.

A good night's sleep will help you focus and think more clearly both in and out of the classroom.

It is also a vital part of your body's natural defenses, such as the immune system. Plus you don't want your professor or fellow students to know you as "the kid who always falls asleep."

6. Get vitamins

If only pizza and beer provided us with all of the important vitamins and minerals we need daily in our diets, college students would be so healthy it hurts. But since we don't always have the time to check the food pyramid or read labels, it may not be a bad idea to take a vitamin that suits your specific needs.

7. Try low-calorie fun

Forget preconceived notions of poor taste and blandness and test out low calorie products and diet sodas. What do you have to lose in trying them? You may actually find something you like. And if it's a product you use regularly, think of all the calories you'll save. Besides, everyone knows that Diet Dr. Pepper tastes more like regular Dr. Pepper.

If the idea of going at this all alone sounds scary, then do it with a friend. This way, you can motivate each other and will be less likely to give up. And be patient about it.

As the year goes on, you'll notice changes and will begin to feel like a new and improved person.

This may sound like a whole bunch of advice being thrown at you at once, but believe me, the little things really do add up.

Hey, by living a healthier lifestyle, you may not gain that "freshman 15" but, rather, lose it.