Everyone knows that starting your freshmen year is one of the most stressful moments of your life. You are entering a new environment, where it’s likely you don’t know anyone at all. Maybe you’ve never even visited your campus or are the first in your family to go to college and don’t know what to expect. Even though it is nerve-wreckig, you’ll be okay. Hundreds of thousands of teenagers across the country start their college experience every year and many have gone before you. College might be the best time of your life; get ready for it.
1. Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers!
It might be really scary to approach that group of students in your writing seminar, but chances are, they’re as nervous as you are to be at college! Even if the person is older than you, they’ll likely be sympathetic to your plight because everyone has been there. If you have questions about a class or the best places to study or where the best food is on campus, don’t be afraid to ask!
2. Speak up in your classes
Professors LOVE students who speak up a lot in class. If you have an idea or question about what you’re discussing, don’t be afraid to discuss it. If your professor asks a question during discussion and you think you know the answer, go ahead and say it. Don’t be afraid to be wrong, because it’ll be a learning experience for you. Class participation usually counts toward your grade and it’ll make you stand out to your professor, which is always a good thing.
3. Join any club that seems interesting
No matter how inovlved you were in high school, now is the time to try a lot of different things. You love soccer, but don’t want to play on the school team? Join club soccer! Did you always want to volunteer at an animal shelter? Then find a group on campus who does or start one yourself. Clubs are a great way to connect with fellow students and learn more about your campus, while also enriching yourself and sometimes the community around you.
4. Talk to your professors
Go. To. Your. Professors’. Office. Hours. Professors love students who stop by to ask questions, or even just to talk. If you feel really passionately about a class or are thinking of majoring in a specific area, then go talk to the professor of that subject. They’ll love to answer your questions and discuss the thing they’ve spent years going to school for and studying themselves.
5. Explore different parts of the campus
No matter the size of your campus, there are going to be lots of interesting places you won’t see on a normal trek to class. Find an interesting nook to hide away in and do work or some hidden place outside to just relax. Throughout your entire college career, you’ll find interesting places to hang out. Take time to explore with your friends and you’ll make college memories you’ll never forget!