As I’m busy with CA (community advisor, aka residential advisor) training, I have been thinking back to what I wish I had known coming into freshman year. Only so much advice can really prepare you for your first month, but I am going to give you some insight into what I think you should know.
Do not go home. I wanted to go home on the weekends during my first month at school. Luckily, my parents absolutely would not let me come home and I am so thankful for that now. The first few weeks, although scary, are really the time when you can form friendships with all the other people who are as nervous in their new environment as you.
Take your school work seriously. Although I just encouraged you to socialize, it is so important not to let your school work take a backseat. Even though it may not seem like it during the first month, those papers really will be due soon and that test truly is coming up! Just stay on top of it now and you’ll thank yourself later.
Go to a ton of events. The way I see it you’re paying to be at school so you may as well make sure you take advantage of all it has to offer. I loved going to see improv shows and a cappella performances but there is something for every taste. If you love sports why not go and see a tennis match and if you’re into concerts see when student bands are playing.
Take care of your health. As you transition into college there is so much that can take up your time and attention, and health may not be at the forefront. Be careful that you make good choices at the dining hall and walk as much as possible. Nothing is worse than having to sit through class while feeling awful.
Do not skip class. You can not skip class. Ever. For any reason except debilitating illness or family emergencies. If you do it for another reason it will become a habit (and one of the worst habits at that). Going to class allows you the possibility of making a connection with a professor or fellow student, but if you don’t go that can never happen.
Spend a lot of time outside of your dorm. It is the only way you will make friends and have fun new experiences. So get out there and explore!
Agree with all of these! Love the fact that your parents wouldn't let you come home! Staying at college is the best way to get involved and avoid being homesick
Love all of these! I definitely agree with going to as many events as you can and taking advantage of them all! My college has a lot of cultural events and performances that have been fun but also challenged me academically and personally. They have been a perfect complement to my college experience!
Thank you! It really is good to stay at school as much as possible
It is wonderful to learn even outside of the classroom! That's so cool that your college offered events like that