So, you're going to be a freshman at KSU? While this is an exciting prospect, it's also quite scary. Well, I am here to help you overcome some of your fears by giving you some advice for surviving and enjoying your first year on Kennesaw's campus. I hope that this article will get you excited about being at this school and help you avoid some of the mistakes that I made my freshman year.
1. Get an Eno and bring it to school
There are tons of trees around both campuses and you will love having your own personal hammock for napping and studying! My two favorite Enoing spots are by the gazebo (behind the social science building) and beside the Green.
2. Invite people to eat at The Commons with you
This year (my freshman year), I made it a goal to never eat at The Commons alone. While this doesn't always happen because people are busy on some days, I've actually made a lot of friends by taking the effort to eat with them. The Commons is the perfect place to invite anyone, from classmate acquaintances to old high school friends. Plus, you're bound to see other people that you know when you get inside, which is always nice.
3. Don't be afraid to chat with people whenever you see them around campus
This probably applies to any college. But, the Kennesaw campus is pretty compact, so you will see people that you know from classes, events and clubs on a day-to-day basis. If you are passing someone you know and they don't seem to be headed to a class immediately, stop and chat with them. I've actually made a few lasting friendships by doing this.
4. Try to join the University Honors Program
I'm a member of the honors club at Kennesaw State and believe me, it pays off. First, I get early registration every semester (actually, I get the same priority as seniors), so I can get into whichever classes I want. Also, you get the chance to take honors classes where you'll be able to be in a smaller setting and be taught by outstanding professors.
5. Visit clubs and go to events that are outside your comfort zone
One of my good friends invited me to attend an event with the International Students Association. At first, I was hesitant because I'm an American citizen and not an international student in any manner of speaking. But, I ended up absolutely loving the event and I became a member of the International Students Association (read my article about ISA here)! Even if you don't end up liking the club that you visit as much as you thought you would, you will still meet new people and that's always good. I have a few continuing friendships from clubs that I only visited once or twice.
6. Don't overbook yourself
All the same, focus on your work first. I overbooked myself this semester and unfortunately, my grades dropped. Don't pay all that money to go to college and then do nothing but socialize.
7. Use the facilities on campus
The renovated fitness center is amazing, guys. Even if you aren't a gym rat, just go in there and use it because your tuition covers it! Also, use the library. The second floor is my favorite place to study because it's relatively quiet and people seem to understand that you want silence, so they won't bother you.
8. Don't go inside The Market unless you absolutely must
If you set foot inside The Market without a specific purchase goal in mind, you'll probably end up buying way too much food. And this isn't good because The Commons gives you enough calories as it is. But, if you sincerely need a cheap lunch or a coffee, then go inside this junk food paradise to find what your heart desires.
9. Eat at the Freshens in the Burruss Building
This restaurant is underrated. But, they have amazing food there, so you need to go inside and try it.
10. If you are a commuter plan on getting to campus early
I'm sorry to break this news to you, but the parking at Kennesaw State is hell. Generally, if your first class is sometime before 10:30 a.m., get to school 30 minutes early to find a good spot. If your first class is after 11 a.m., then get to school at least 45 minutes early and bring your hiking shoes, because you'll probably have to walk from an obscure spot to reach the main campus.
11. Go to fairs on the Green
If you're free during a fair on the Green, just go to it. You'll probably get a free t-shirt, water bottle or some candy. And you can't beat free stuff.
12. Get the yearly free flu shot
It sounds scary to get a flu shot from a nursing student who is probably only a year or two older than you, but believe me -- it's worth it. You're going to get exposed to a lot of germs throughout the winter season, so any extra protection is great. Plus, you'll save $20 to $30 by getting a free shot on campus.
13. Check every email from Owl Express
Last semester, one of my financial due dates once appeared at the very bottom of an email in small print. I ended up paying a rather high late fee because I neglected to read my email properly. You need to read those emails carefully, or you're going to miss something vital.
14. Be open to diversity
Talk to people who have different views than you. Enjoy being in class with all sorts of different people from different backgrounds. That's what makes Kennesaw State so great: the variety of people you will get to meet.
