We’re nearing the end of the Spring semester here at UW-Stout, which means prospective students and incoming freshman are in a frenzy to find every possible key to their success. They’re scouring Pinterest for packing lists, and rifling for the perfect dorm bedding. So we’re going to try to make it easy for you, freshmen! Here’s a few tips to finding your niche at Stout, given from a student that has just been through it.
1. Keep your door open.
I mean this metaphorically and literally. Make sure you approach campus activities with an open mind, and leave your dorm open when you’re inside to encourage interactions with your peers. A lot of times, in the first few weeks of the fall semester, student organizations will wander the residence halls to invite new students to join their clubs. You’ll be able to make friends faster if you’re not cooped up in your shoebox all day!
2. Attend the majority of campus activities.
It may sound like a no brainer, but attending all these events until you’ve found ones you like is a great way to meet new people and find your belonging in a place where you might have none. Stout has such a wide variety of opportunities that you’ll never be bored.
3. Do your homework in the lounge.
Not only do you have access to a whole floor full of people taking similar classes to yours, but it’s a great way to socialize in a constructive manner that still allows you to get things done. It’s also a great safe and social space for meeting people with similar interests.
All in all, UW-Stout has a great First Year Experience program which offers freshmen the tools they need to find their home. So incoming freshmen, put yourselves out there, have fun, and remember that life begins at the edge of your comfort zone!