Now that I have gone through 1 year of college at Thomas Jefferson University, I can say that I am somewhat qualified to advise any freshman coming to Jefferson as well as general tips for college students. While some of this advice may be hyper-specific to the East Falls campus and maybe even major-specific (health sciences), I will try to keep it as inclusive as possible. Without further ado and in no specific order:
- Attend the Bigger Events
Go to the Carnival and the Club fair in the fall and the Ram Jam in the spring! I am not suggesting that you attend every single bingo night, sports game, or even every event that CAB (campus activity board) plans. But, if I had to recommend some to go to, it’d be these two events. With this, you will be set.
These bigger events allow you to experience the true Jefferson experience; this being a large event with a small student body. It’s held outdoors, but I can assure you that it is fun to see all the different groups of people outside your major in the same area. It reminds me of Orientation and Welcome Week, which I appreciated, too. Make good memories. Don’t hold back.
- Making Friends is Not Difficult
This is easier said than done of course. But I can assure you that the people that Jefferson attracts are not bad! On my very first day of campus, I stood next to the campus map looking very confused as to how I would enter Ravenhill Mansion (tip: go through the side facing the parking lot, not around the back). This upperclassman student came up to me asking me whether or not I needed help and I eventually found my class on time. So, the moral of the story is that this campus is tight-knit, especially for those within the same college/concentration. I see the same rotation of people in my stem and honors courses, branching out in my hallmark courses. You will find people who connect with you! I never approach people, but some people do – or perhaps you will do that to someone else! The first step is always intimidating, but putting in the effort to see these people outside of classes/work is what makes friendships last. Exchange numbers to send TikToks to one another, plan lunch together during the break period, schedule study sessions with each other, or even meet up at big events. Also, wave to/smile at/acknowledge each other when you pass by the other person! The small things matter!
- College is Unlike High School but Not in That Way
Every online personality claims that college is not like high school and that teachers will let you do whatever you want. They’re “chill” so to speak. While this may be the case for a couple of teachers, I find that these people only make this claim because the workload is different. Going from having math class every single day at a certain time to having math three times a week for maybe an hour is different. At first, I felt as though I didn’t receive enough instruction and that the emphasis on my self-studying was much more than I expected. In high school, all the material was handed to me. All I did was take notes. For biology especially, it’s recommended that you go over the material, teaching yourself a little bit of it, before you come into class. This doesn’t sound too bad on paper, but when you go through it, make sure you expect it and be prepared for self-teaching.
- Stay Grounded
This is your first time away from your family (unless you are a commuter like me) as well as the chance to completely reinvent yourself. Nobody has any preconceptions or opinions of you so you might feel tempted to create a new persona to fit in. I do not suggest doing that. As corny as it may sound, try to stay true to yourself. Shy and want to branch out? Sure, go out, but don’t force yourself to. Jefferson is not considered a “party” school, but that does not stop people from visiting party schools in Philadelphia.
While I understand your excitement at going through the American college experience of going out and partying, I would suggest doing so in moderation. Don’t get carried away and go out every night. You will realize that it is not as fun as you initially may have thought. Once a week – sure. I hear that Thursdays are typically the day students head out since many students don’t have classes on Friday mornings and a lot of students head home for the weekend. So, have fun. I’m not saying not to. Simply, know that it does get tiring if you do it constantly with school awaiting you the next day. Skipping classes constantly and having your grade drop is not worth temporary fun.
- Self-Discipline is Key
Make sure you learn self-discipline if you don’t already practice it. You are an adult. You should be able to do laundry, eat properly, and manage your time. If you do need help scheduling yourself, there is no shame in seeking help. There are plenty of resources for students to help with time management and other stuff. Also, ask your RA! They are there for a reason. Make those mistakes early on so you know for future reference.
So, remember to eat consistently (meaning eat at similar times every day), wash your sheets at least once every two weeks, sweep your floor at least the same amount, and do your laundry every week (it is free after all, and don’t do it on a Sunday).
Also, go exercise. The gym is included in your tuition. Even if you are intimidated to go to the gym (trust me, I was too), once you go in, it becomes less scary. If you aren’t a gym person, try a sport with your friends. Renting out equipment is easy and I enjoy playing volleyball, which keeps me active and helps me maintain friendships. So, just try the machines out for half an hour and go from there. There is no experience/research required unless you aim to build a certain muscle group. Go slowly and you’ll get there!