Here at Her Campus Emerson, we all have at least a semester or two under our belt. We know the drill: What’s tasty at Emerson Cafe, how to beat the rush at the Walker Building, and how long it takes to book it from Tufte to the Paramount Center for an 8am class. We thought we’d dole out some basic advice on how to survive your first semester here — but first: TAKE. YOUR. LANYARD. OFF. Nothing says “I’m new here,” like your suite keys jingling around your neck.
As for our general consensus? Join as many Orgs as you can manage and it WILL pay off. Here’s the rest:
Dive in. Have fun. Put yourself out there. Be yourself (it’s a cliche because it’s true). Quell your fears and anxieties. It’ll all be worth it in the end.
Andrea Shea, WLP
After just transferring to Emerson College last spring as a second semester junior, one of the
most valuable things I did was immediately become involved in an organization. It truly opened
up my eyes to all of the unique clubs and activities that Emerson has to offer. I never thought a
sorority would be the right fit for me, but it opened up a multitude of opportunities to join other
organizations, like HerCampus Emerson! Just one organization, or even one person can open up
your eyes to a world of opportunity here, as long as you stay true to yourself, and most of all enjoy
every second of it!
Nicole Vazquez, WLP
Be afraid. Be brave. Muster up as much confidence as you can and go for it: whatever “it” may be. Whether it’s auditioning for a comedy troupe, rushing a sorority or asking out that cute guy that lives on your floor, every step (and misstep!) you take is a lesson in building the confidence you’ll radiate by the time you leave Emerson. Learn how to look people straight in the eye and don’t be afraid to say what’s on your mind. Be aggressive, be kind and, above all, be the best YOU you can be.
Lorena Mora, Writing For Film & Television
I was a spring admit so I came in four months after everyone was already settled with friends and organizations. It’s going to sound cliche, but academically join everything that you think you can keep up with. I got rejected more than I got a position but that didn’t stop me from trying for more publications to write for on-campus. In only one semester I have achieved more things than many Sophomores and I am very proud of that. If you have the drive you will come through, but remember that losing is part of growing up and learning about yourself and potential. Take the competition at Emerson as a good thing and as a practice round before you enter the “real world.” Socially, Emerson is a great place to meet people. Make friends with people on your floor, most of the time they will welcome you with open arms or are probably in your same position and just as nervous. Don’t be afraid to start conversations on Facebook too (we are a VERY social media-friendly school), it’s a good way to break the ice for the next time you hang out! Best of luck!
Aleks Fonseca, WLP
Emerson students take great pride in being really involved. That being said, put yourself out there! Make sure you visit the Org Fair and check out as many organizations as possible. Emerson has so many options; you don’t have to be limited to your major. Classes are important, but nothing is more helpful than experiences from beyond the classroom.
Kate Lagreca, Political Communications
Explore every possible organization, especially if you weren’t involved in high school clubs. This is your chance to break out of your shell and take the first steps toward creating your future, so don’t miss your chance.
Kayla Maiuri, WLP
Definitely join orgs that may be a little outside your comfort zone. You could discover an entirely new passion.
Caitlin Collins, Political Communications & Journalism
My main advice is to go to the Org Fair and sign up for as many organizations as you are interested in. As you find out more about those organizations and attend their info. sessions and meetings you can narrow it down to the ones that you really want and feel most comfortable with. Definitely get involved at Emerson in some way, that is how you will meet amazing people and make connections that will help you after you graduate and are looking for a job.
Sarah Dwyer, WLP
I would suggest choosing one organization you really want to be in and focus on that. It will take up some of your time but not too much. For classes, if you don’t like them, switch. It may seem like a pain but its worth it. You will get a better grade in the end and be happier. Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask any questions. As a small school we form a tight knit community and are always willing to help each other out.
Hannah Try, Writing For Film & Television
Work hard. Get involved. Have fun! If there is one thing you need to know about Emerson it’s the importance of organizations and staying involved. People will always tell you how much you can learn from taking classes, and you can learn a lot, but there is nothing like actually taking charge of a project and then seeing the end result. And don’t forget to take a break every so often to relax.
Micah Schweitzer, Marketing Communications
Put yourself out there and get involved on campus! Joining different organizations is a great way to make friends outside your major and explore interests you may not have discovered in high school. The org fair is a must, and I recommend signing up for anything that intrigues you–you can always unsubscribe to the e-mails if you change your mind! I also suggest exploring the city as much as possible during your first few weeks. Boston is beautiful during the fall, and I wish I’d spent more time in Cambridge and the North End my first semester at Emerson.
Kim Suchy, WLP
My advice for new students is simply this: don’t be afraid to go a little nuts. Meet everyone on your floor, take on too many activities your first semester. Figure out what you like. Where you belong. You’ll get into the groove of things soon enough! And don’t ever be afraid to open up.
Regina Mogilevskaya, WLP