As the 2015-2016 academic year ends, I want to address the University of Dayton class of 2020.
First, congratulations on surviving high school. I was in your shoes this time last year so I feel like this is as good a time as there ever will be to offer my advice on your last summer before college, as well as your first year on campus.
1. Enjoy the time you have with your high school classmates.
I fully understand being fed up with the majority of people that you have gone to school with for the past four years, but these are the last few weeks you will ever be together as a class. Graduation will most likely be the last time you will all be together as a group. I'm not saying you need to instantly become BFF's with the kid who tried to push you in a locker freshman year, but just be friendly and let go of any previously held grudges.
2. Get a summer job.
That loose change sitting in your car, save it. College is expensive, everything from that UD hoodie that you "absolutely need to have" to the Domino's orders at 3 am during finals week will drain your bank account. Do not underestimate the amount of money teenagers can spend on food when parents are not around.
3. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
The transition from high school to college can be a very confusing and stressful time. Don't be shy, ask questions whether it be to a current student, faculty member, or older sibling who went to UD, we are all here to help.
4. Once you are all moved in to your dorm, leave the door open.
Some of the closest friends you will make during your first year at UD are the people you are living with. Something as simple as leaving your door open creates an inviting atmosphere that UD thrives on. I remember moving in to my room in Stuart Hall (312 Adele) and not knowing what to expect. The awkward ice was broken as soon as guys started playing music, talking sports, and playing video games. By the second week of school it was as if the 36 guys on my floor had all been lifelong friends. We made intramural teams, went to parties together, and made memories that none of us will ever forget. As it turns out, I am actually living with three other people from my freshman year floor this year.
5. Go to class.
When that alarm goes off early in the morning for your 8 am lecture and you see that its 20 degrees and snowing, I know how tempting it is to stay in bed. I highly recommend going to class because your professors will take notice of your dedication to the class, and in some cases boost your grade for consistent attendance.
6. Get involved.
Whatever it is you are interested in, there is most likely a club or organization at Dayton for you. Getting involved is the best way to meet new people and make great friends. I came into college not knowing what to get involved in, but after attending the annual Up the Orgs fair, I saw so many opportunities. I ended up joining a fraternity, hosting a radio show with my roommate, and much more. The connections you make through various campus involvement opportunities is part of what college is truly about.
7. Master the skill of napping.
One of the most important life skills college teaches you is how to nap. I napped more in the nine months of freshman year than I had in the nine years leading up to college. Whether its just a 20 minute cat nap between classes, or a three hour hibernation where you wake up not knowing what year it is, sleep is a valuable commodity.
8. Call home once a week, if not more.
For many, college is the first time away from home for an extended period of time. Not only can this be hard on the students, parents have to adjust as well. Try to communicate with your parents for more than just when you need money added to your meal plan. A simple five-minute phone call with your mom or dad can not only brighten their day, it can make yours as well.
9. Work hard, play hard.
College is an educational opportunity first, and social experiment second. Going to parties with friends, playing basketball at the gym, or going to the Dayton Mall to play with puppies are all fun and highly encouraged, but ensure that you are doing well in your classes too. You will have a lot more fun when you are not constantly stressed about your grades.
10. Be yourself.
I know this is the most cliche thing to say, but it's true. College is a place where there are all different types of people coming together to live and learn. If you just be yourself from the start, it will make things so much easier as you grow at UD. Don't try too hard to impress people, just be you and I can guarantee you will make amazing friends.
You all picked a great school filled with the most caring and incredible people, we can't wait to welcome you into our Flyer family.
