You almost can't believe that high school is finally behind you. You've graduated, had your parties, and said your final good-byes. With your diploma in hand, you feel invincible. Bring it on world, you think. Nothing can be harder than what I've already accomplished!
Think again, graduate. You've tackled high school, now get ready to rest at the bottom of the food chain once more. You're going to college, my friend.
If you've chosen to read this particular article, you're probably just like me: a proud freshman at Alabama's very own Troy University. On top of that, you're dying to get to IMPACT and register for classes. But just what fate awaits you at new student orientation?
Here are a few things to expect:
1. The Check-In Line Gets Long
You only have an hour to check-in, drop your things in your room, and hightail it to Trojan Center for the welcome meeting. However, remember that your fellow classmates all have the exact same timeline and all need to check in at the same building. The line gets long! Be sure to arrive early to ensure you have plenty of time to get to your room, meet up with your friends, and not be too worried about where you need to be.
2. Plan a Time and Place to Meet Up With Your Friend BEFORE You Check-In
If you and a friend have decided to room together, you guys need to make sure you meet up beforehand and stand in line together. Who you room with during IMPACT is based on when you check-in and who is in line either in front of you or behind you. If you want to room with your best (same-sex) buddy, you guys need to be standing in line next to each other when you go up to get your room keys.
3. Groups
After a very warm and spirited Trojan welcome, you're going to be separated into small groups of about 25-30 kids. These groups are led by a pair of IMPACT leaders, who, by the way, are extremely helpful and totally psyched to see you. They have all the answers to your questions. Remember, they were freshmen once, too. Ask them anything about the school, and they will be glad to give you an answer.
4. Placement Tests
I know what you're thinking: WHY. Before you panic, allow me to ease your conscience. No, you don't need to study, and you only need to take them if you got below a certain score on a sub-category on the ACT. Not only are these tests short, but they are ESSENTIAL in deciding what class you need to take to ensure you succeed in the subject in the future. Admin will be sure to let you know if you need to take these tests.
5. Breakout Sessions
These are basically meetings organized by a variety of professors, campus organizations, and the campus administration. You're free to choose to attend any meeting set in the allotted time schedule. Some options include Housing Information, Sorority and Fraternity Interest Sessions, Financial Aid Information, and Campus Involvement Information. Just pick one that peaks your interest.
6. Academic Departmental Visit
In the midst of your busy day, the IMPACT leaders will separate and lead you to your department of academic interest for your major. This is where you meet some of your future professors, discuss the course material, and basically ask any questions you need answered.
7. Organizational Browse Session
In this session, many of the clubs and organizations that belong to Troy University will be there to showcase what they do and relay information on who they are. The groups range from sororities to church groups to academic clubs and beyond. With many of them, you can sign up for mass text updates. They're there for YOU, so don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have!
8. Butter and Egg Adventures
At the end of the first day of IMPACT, you and your group are hopping on the Trojan shuttles and going to camp! At Butter and Egg Adventures, you can participate in a variety of team-building activities, from playing laser tag to zipping down the zip lines. It's all outside, so be sure to pack some clothes you can get sweaty and dirt-covered. After some time to do these activities by yourself or with friends, it's time to get with your group and enter into a series of competitive battles of strength, speed, and cunning! The group that wins gets glory and a free t-shirt!
9. More Breakout Sessions
Thought these were over? The second set of breakout sessions includes important information on campus programs, including (but not limited to) a meeting for Undeclared Majors and information on the University Honors Program. Some of these are listed as "required." This basically means that if you have traits that apply to one specific program, you need to go to that meeting!
10. Registration
At long last, you will get to meet with your IMPACT leaders and register for freshmen classes! Oh, happy day! Your IMPACT leaders are there to advise you on what to sign up for and help you through the whole process, so again, don't hesitate to ask any questions!
Now go, future Trojans!I'll see you all in August!
