Hi sweetie;
I've been doing it for two years.
One thing is you both have to be commited. This is a long-distance relationship, but still a relationship. Meaning that you will both be busy with your lives and the new experiences that you will be facing, but you MUST put time aside to talk.
Msn (on the phone), anything works well. Even though you don't see each other, doesn't mean can't have dates or time to spend with each other.
You might like to try making plans to visit each other. Pick approximate dates. After you do this, you always have something to look forward to. You can count down together.
Send random text messages or photos of you guys having fun (i.e. Frosh week or in a cute outfit you just scored for a good price at H&M) Those are always fun...
Understand that he may like his new "space" and "freedom" but he'll come back around shortly when he realises how much he misses you.
Hope this helps a little.
Good luck with your first year!!!