How to Approach Your First Semester as a Newbie to Campus

Making the transition from high school to college can seem very scary and challenging. Navigating a new campus, creating your schedule, and finding your circle of friends are just a few of the worries first-year students may face in their first semester. In this article, you will learn about the best ways to acclimate to a new campus as a newbie!

Be Open

As you enter your first semester on campus, it is important to keep an open mind. Be open to new experiences, new people, and new ways of learning. As a college student, you will meet students from all over the country, and probably even the world. Students will come from a plethora of backgrounds so it is especially important to remain open to new ways of thinking. Ways to ensure that you are staying open include joining campus clubs, interacting with your classmates, and participating in social events.

Being open to new ways of thinking also includes being open to new topics of study. This is immensely important for students entering college undecided. Being open to new material and areas of study you may not have been exposed to previously can help narrow down your scope of interest.

Take Advantage of Your Resources

As a newbie to campus, it is also important to keep in mind that colleges and universities offer a variety of resources; resources that exist but may have to be sought out. For instance, make it a priority to meet with your dean regularly, if you are uncertain about class material, attend office hours, meet with your TA, participate in tutoring sessions, etc. Many schools also provide students with a career center to assist with matters including research projects, internships, and work study opportunities. Institutions make these resources available to you for a reason; they are there to help and guide you through every step of your college journey.

Time Management

One of the most important skills that will help you optimally succeed throughout your college career is time management. As a college student, there will be a variety of responsibilities and tasks on your plate such as attending your classes, completing your homework, studying for exams, and fulfilling commitments to extracurricular activities. In addition to this, it is imperative that you set aside time for yourself and the things that make you happy. One way to ensure that you are making the most out of your time is to keep a planner. Within this planner, you can plan out how everyday looks for you. For instance, you may choose to study for your Chemistry exam for three hours on Mondays and Wednesdays and work on your English paper for two hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays; whatever works for you!

Above all, college is a very unique experience that should be thoroughly enjoyed. It is all about finding that balance; have fun and rejoice in your college experience but do not let that hinder your chances at academic success.