Going to orientation can be a bit scary for some people. Either because they are going to school far away from home and or because they don't know anyone going to school with them. So if you are feeling this way, you are not alone. But here are 10 tips to help you enjoy and make the most of your first introduction to college life
1. Go in with an open mind.
I went to orientation with a schedule made in my mind and plans of exactly what I wanted to do when I was at school. And once I got there almost everything I planned ended up not happening and it was a lot for me to handle. Just go with the flow with everything and I promise it'll work out just how it is supposed to.
2. Be nice to everybody.
You never know who you are going to meet and you'll never regret being nice.
3. You aren't going to click with everybody — and that's OK.
Just like in high school, you won't be friends with everyone you meet in college. Conversations aren't always going to have a nice flow and you might meet some people that you have absolutely nothing in common with. If that happens don't worry, you will find people who you can have conversations with that you never want to end!
4. Double check that all your AP scores, IB scores, and transcripts have been processed by your university before you get to campus.
The last thing you want to happen is not being able to get into a class you want due to an error with the paperwork!
5. If you don't like the food now, find food you do like ASAP.
Most colleges have multiple dining halls, and if you don't like the food in yours either talk to someone in the kitchen or go to another dining hall. Eating out for every meal can be expensive, especially as a college kid, and knowing what halls have foods you like will save you a lot of time from running around in between classes to eat.
6. You can walk around by yourself.
In high school you will get a bunch of looks if you are walking to class alone. In college there are so many classes and combinations of schedules, the chances you get two in a row with a person you know, let alone any other person, are slim. So get comfortable finding your way around campus — because you will need to know sooner or later and you can't always rely on others for directions. You might even find a cool place to study or a new restaurant.
7. Community bathrooms aren't as bad as you think.
I went to orientation horrified about sharing a bathroom with 100 other girls. With private showers and changing rooms, it's not that different from home. If your school doesn't have that, chances are everyone on your floor won't be going to the bathroom at the same time.
8. Wear comfortable shoes.
While you want to look cute and impress all the people you will be going to school with for the next four years, you will be doing a lot of walking. And I guarantee you that you will enjoy orientation a lot more in a pair of jean shorts and sneakers than a dress and sandals (and your feet will too.)
9. Do not give yourself an 8 a.m. class on Fridays.
Thursday is a big night for going out in college and the last thing you want is to be out partying until 3 a.m. and then fight sleep at during your Econ discussion five hours later.
10. Have Fun.
While a big point of going to orientation is to learn about all the academic information and resources you need to be successful, it is located on campus instead of online for a reason. Once you are done with your activities, grab some friends and go explore! Find a cute little restaurant or go sit on the football field and get to know the people you will be studying with for the next four years.
