August is quickly approaching! You’re anxious for move in, to start classes and to finally be on your own. College is definitely an experience and it’s true what they say, “College is what you make it!” Your mind is buzzing with questions and you’re eager to see how things work. Well, here are some tips that you need to know for your freshman year. There’s still a lot more to learn, but here’s a start!
1. Brace yourself for move-in day: As you already know, it gets pretty hot in Valdosta. This means you need to brace yourself for the heat (maybe even rain), heavy lifting, and stresses of move-in day. Don’t worry, though; there will be upperclassmen volunteering for the move-in crew that will help you and answer any questions along the way!
2. Find your classes ahead of time: You have a good bit of time between move-in day and the first day of class. Take that time to explore and familiarize yourself with the campus. You can locate the buildings your classes will be in so you know how much time you have to get from one place to another. Another tip: set your schedule as your home and lock screen so you can easily see it if you don’t have it completely memorized.
3. Keep your 1card and color card with you: Your 1card is important! It will get you into your building, the dining hall, and (in some halls) into your room. Your color card is what is going to get you past the front desk of your building. Make sure you are responsible and keep these with you! If you do happen to lose either one, you can always get them replaced… but there’s a fee.
4. Get an agenda: Between class, homework, tests, meetings, and events you have a lot to keep up with. Make things a little bit easier by getting an agenda to keep yourself organized and on top of things.
5. Check your email and BlazeVIEW regularly: You may receive important emails and updates from time to time, so make sure you keep up with them. Your professors are more than likely going to be putting up class information, schedules, and other important information on BlazeVIEW. Make sure you stay in the know!
6. Always check the weather: Valdosta’s weather is great, but not always perfect! Plan your outfits according to the weather so you’ll know whether to wear shorts and sandals or bring out your umbrella and rain boots!
7. Set your alarms: One missed alarm can mean a missed test and that’s definitely not something you want! Be sure to ALWAYS set your alarm before bed because “I overslept” or “My alarm didn’t go off” is not a valid excuse!
8. Get into a routine: A new setting means a new routine. Get into a routine to balance out when you will make time for homework, studying, events, working out and free time. Remember: structure is great!
9. Don’t forget about your family: Just because you’re away doesn’t mean your family goes away. Make sure to make time to call your family to let them know how you’re doing or just to talk. Make sure you don’t just call them when you need more money on your account!
10. Utilize your resources: You have people that can help you, so make sure to get help when needed. If you have a problem in your residence hall or need advice you can always talk to your RA. If you need help in a subject, take a visit to the student success center. For any problem, there is someone on campus that can help whether it be for physical/mental health, academics, etc. There’s a campus full of people waiting to assist!
11. Stay on task: College is fun, but ultimately you’re there for your degree. Make sure you prioritze! You may end up not remembering those parties, but you will certainly remember if you end up failing a class because of those parties.
12. Be social and get involved: The first week of school there will be many events to help you get acquainted with your peers, so take advantage of that. Be social and get involved in an on-campus organization! VSU has MANY organizations to choose from so choose one that interests you. The social experience of college is very important as well. Make the most of your experience!
HCxo!