Ahh, freshmen year of college, such an exciting time in your life. So many changes are happening, and it can definitely be intimidating, but hopefully this can help out in some way. Here's 11 tips for freshmen entering college, particularly University of Louisiana at Lafayette:
1. Enjoy orientation!
You can enjoy college before you even start; orientation is one of the funnest things you get to attend (and the staff at ULL is probably the most bomb people on campus). Seriously though, this is your first chance to get to know people and branch out; don't be that kid that's sitting in the corner not wanting to play any of the ice breaker games. It really is so much fun if you let it be. (And sign up for SOUL camp, the extended orientation. I'm telling you, I didn't go, and I SO wish I did.)
2. Get involved!
Yeah, you'll hear this probably 1852 (sorry, I'm Greeky) times while you're here. But it's so important. I literally cannot stress it enough! And at ULL, we're lucky to have something for anyone on campus. Find something that maybe interests you, and then go for it. You might surprise yourself how much you actually like it.
3. Do stuff on campus.
Please don't be that kid that goes to class then goes home and does nothing. ULL offers so many fun activities, thanks to UPC. There's even a day dedicated to just eating crawfish and canoeing in the swamp. Go to football games, go to the fun events, GO TO MIDNIGHT BREAKFAST, just GO. It's free and fun, so why not??
4. Geaux Greek!
Okay, so this could fall under get involved, buuuuut, it deserves its own category. Going Greek was the one of the best decisions I have ever made in my entire life, so definitely don't miss out!
5. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Whether if it's in the classroom when you don't understand a topic, or walking around campus trying to find a building, just ask. We've all been there, and we understand. On the first day of class, my friend sat in the wrong room, and instead of getting up and leaving, he stayed there and missed the class he was supposed to be in. Don't be that guy! I promise, all the freshmen around you are just as confused, and shoot, most of us sophomores are too.
6. Use the facilities around campus.
Bourgeois. Make an effort to go. It helps you to stay in shape, and cute boys usually are around there anyways. Lee Hall. Hello, ULL offers FREE tutoring. If you're struggling, pass by and see what's available. The Writing Center. Every paper you ever write, they will check and fix. You're paying for all this and more, so make use of it!!
7. Don't get discouraged!
Your straight A streak from kindergarten to senior year may come to an end. You probably won't be able to decide what you want to do with your life. And you honestly may not figure out where everything is on campus until Junior year. It's okay! Don't get upset with yourself! Just keep trying and everything will come in time.
8. Take advantage of student discounts!!
Woop. My favorite part of college (okay not really). But seriously! Restaurants and stuff won't advertise it, but most places do have a student discount, you just have to ask! Twin's Burgers & Sweets, Piccadilly Cafeteria, Popeye's, Quizno's, Kart Ranch, and so much more. It's worth it, use that Cajun Card!
9. Don't be afraid of Mount Griffin...
5th floor classes. You can be a little afraid actually, but it's not as bad as it seems. And hey, it might help keep that freshmen 15 off.
10. Remember, it is school.
Get those grades. Don't skip too much class, while it is tempting. GO TO OFFICE HOURS, especially during those first two weeks, just so the professor sees you care early on. Study. Midterms come and you haven't even opened the textbook? Good luck. C's may get degrees, but a 2.0 isn't always the best you could've done. FOCUS. The classes cost money, you don't want to have to repeat them.
11. Don't forget to have fun!
I know, the reason we're here is for education and all that good stuff, but college is supposed to be like the best times of our lives. Have fun guys! So yeah, studying every night might get you a 100% on that test, but, taking one night off to make memories with your friends and ending up with a 99% is totally worth it. Everything is okay in moderation: that is the key to college. Focus, but live a little. Or live a lot, it's only your freshmen year for God's sake.
