Although it is an insane amount of fun, navigating your first year at Michigan State University can be tricky at times. Check out the following tips for a smoother transition into adulthood:
1. Sit in the student sections
Football and basketball. There are plenty of other sports here worth watching, of course, but these two are the ones you won’t want to miss out on. Our football student section is always a good time and the Izzone puts other student sections to shame.
2. Never miss a tailgate
Tailgating is a right of passage here — and you’ll soon find out why. Even if you don’t make it to the actual game, you’re bound to have a good time.
3. Find the right cafs
Brody might have the best reputation for food, but Landon and Sny Phi aren’t too shabby. If I were you, I’d never even set foot in Holmes or Case to eat. It’s worth your time to walk the extra 10 minutes to the better caf.
4. Get involved
Not to sound like your high school counselor here, but there’s way too many groups at MSU to not be involved. There’s something for everyone here, so do some research and figure out which group best suits your interests.
5. Housing fills up fast
Not to mention leasing starts in October when you won’t even move in until the following August. It’s bsurd, in my opinion, but hey — that’s the way it works here. Make sure you figure out where you want to live and who you want to live with as soon as possible. Choose wisely!
6. There’s nowhere to park
Parking here sucks. It won’t get better. But if you find a hidden gem of a parking spot that’s free after 6:00 p.m., don’t tell a soul about it.
7. Never forget to combo
Being a senior, I didn’t realize how great combos actually were when I had them. It doesn’t always have to be a pop tart and some chips; you can also use your combo on a hot meal at Sparty’s if you’re in a hurry in between class. Make sure to stock up – you never know when those late-night, I-shouldn’t-have-procrastinated cravings will hit.
8. Yes, the parties are amazing
And if you think those sweaty frat parties with too many boys who dance like they’re still in middle school is fun, wait until you start going to actual house parties. Halloween weekend will change your life, along with St. Patty’s.
9. CATA bus drivers are ruthless
It doesn’t matter if you just sprinted from two buildings away, they will leave you in the dust. If you can’t find a seat once you hop on, you better find something to hold onto.
10. Ditch the lanyard
Though it might be handy, it’s a dead giveaway that you’re a freshman. If you want to blend in, leave it in your dorm.
11. Eat late night at the Union
Unlimited pizza, sandwiches, ice cream and more? This should be a weekly thing for you. Just be careful – their quesadillas could turn your freshman 15 into a freshman 50 real quick.
12. Don’t be shy
Leave your door open, talk to people in your classes and actually go out on the weekends. MSU is the best, so don’t waste your time here!