Tips for College Freshmen
There are so many words that you could use to describe freshman year of college. Excitement: the feeling of gaining independence and beginning a new chapter. Fear: what if I don’t find my place here, or what if I miss home a little too much? Opportunity: the chance to learn new things, meet new people, and immerse yourself in college life. As a freshman, emotions are running high and no one tells you exactly what to do (or more importantly, what not to do). We’re here to give you the leg up with our top 10 tips for college freshmen that will help acclimate you into this new and exciting life!
Go To Class!
This may seem like a given, but seriously go to class! Not only should school come first, but the connections that you will make with professors and classmates only happen if you attend and are participating in your classes. It may be scary to introduce yourself to someone you’ve never met before, but think about it this way… everyone is new!
Get To Know The People Around You
Living on campus is the perfect opportunity to meet new people. REACH and The Kitchens both host fun community events, so remember to take advantage of this built in neighborhood filled with other Seawolves!
Put Your Phone Down
These next four years will go by in the blink of an eye, so put down your phone and enjoy the moment that you’re in! Whether you’re at an on-campus event with your roommates or you’re sitting in the dining hall, you’ll miss these experiences when they become memories.
Join A Club Or Organization
Getting involved is truly what will make or break your college experience! Whether you are interested in playing a club sport, joining Fraternity and Sorority Life, or aren’t quite sure what you want to get involved in, do something! You can connect with organizations on campus by going up to a table in Seawolf Plaza or by exploring Engage@SSU!
Take Advantage of ALL of SSU
Sonoma State is full of useful resources and amazing staff that are here to help YOU. Facilities like the Career Center, the Library, and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) are free for all students, so take advantage of it! Also, don’t forget to visit open dining venues and Campus Rec to hang out with other students!
Home Will Always Be There
There will be some days where you will miss home and think “what am I doing here?.” Just remember that your loved ones are a phone call away. Remember, the more you are involved, the busier your mind and schedule will be!
Find Your Study Spot
With so many different buildings, corners, and tables to study at, it can be hard to find your favorite right off the bat. Try out a few different study spots to find your go-to. Some students’ favorite places to study are outside the Wine Spectator Building, The Student Center, Sip, and the Lakes!
Keep A Journal & Take Photos
The people, the memories, the events, and the day-to-day experiences you will have at SSU are worth writing about. Take the time to journal each week so that you never forget what your college years were all about! Also, be sure to take lots of pictures to document your favorite memories!
Connect With Advisors, Professors & Staff
Not only should you connect with the facilities on campus, but the staff and faculty members, as well. Your professors, advisors, and tutors are all advocating for you to learn and enjoy your time at SSU! Talking with a professor after class, or making an appointment with your academic advisor are both great steps in the right direction.
Prioritize!
Balancing a social life, school, extracurriculars, and taking care of yourself is a hard task for anyone! This is where prioritizing comes into play. Using a planner to keep track of assignments and events is extremely helpful so that you make sure you have enough time for everything!
College can be a roller coaster with a lot of ups and downs. Take it day by day, and remember to live in the moment and not get too caught up in the details. These will be the best years of your life!