The Portland State University freshman are moving in tomorrow and might need a few words of advice, even if the don't think they do. Here are a few things that are actually just a bit important to know that you might not think about.
1. Recycle
Recycling is a big part of not just Portland, but Oregon itself, and it’s important that we all understand where to put what so we don’t have to see one more sculpture made out ocean plastic again. There are multiple trash bins for different items all around the campus and I once had to go through them for a trash audit. I did not enjoy having to separate everything out and throwing it all back in again because it was contaminated by food. If you don't know how to recycle, go to www.oregonmetro.gov and learn for yourself!
2. No one cares what you look like.
If you have ever heard the saying, “Keep Portland Weird”, then you will understand this. There are so many different styles around town that some of them will freak you out, and I can guarantee those people and the people around them are looking more at them than at you.
3. No one judges you one what you do.
Everybody at college is trying to figure out who they are and what they want in life, so unless you’re their friend and about to do something stupid, people don’t care what your next move in this crazy world is. If you want to go dance weirdly in the middle of the street, well, I bet you there already is someone there and if you go and join the only thing people will care about is that they are not the ones making a fool out of themselves. So, wear what you want, and do what you want.
4. Get out and explore.
For those of you who are not from a city, it might be a bit overwhelming at first, and for those of you that are from a city, you're not going to get bored. There is so much to do in this crazy place, so don’t be afraid to try new things and make stupid decisions (like walk to the diner at 4am with your friends or go to an all ages club in a sketchy part of town), but be careful!
5. Make new friends.
There are over 120 majors and minors here, which means there are many different kinds of people who have a variety of interests. I promise that when you get here you will easily make at least 20 friends if you just walk up and say hi to someone, which you should! Growing up you are kind of forced to be friends with everyone in your school, now you have thousands of people to choose from. This is the time in your life you will need to move on and find people you could spend the next couple years or even the rest of your life with. Find the unboring!
6. Join a club.
There are a ton of different clubs here, especially with all the diversity that takes place. I'm sure there is a club for you. People say you make friends in classes but it is actually quite difficult since there is an age difference in your classes, and there just simply isn’t a lot of time for chit chat, unless the class calls for a lot of group work. So whether it's chess, Korean identities, tango, or swim club, get joining.
7. Utilize the recreation center.
Many people forget about the rec center because there isn’t always a whole lot of time and motivation to work out. However, you are paying for it in your tuition and as you’re living on your own in this new way, you’re going to forget to workout. Just remember that it’s essential to your health to keep your body moving. There are opportunities for Zumba, yoga, swimming, weights, and even a rock wall that you could utilize for even just 30 minutes a day. Do these for the sake of avoiding the freshman 15.
8. Be careful when crossing the street.
Portland drivers are used to all the rush hour traffic, bus lanes, and random stop lights, but you are not. Sometimes people wont be paying attention so it’s a lot scarier when crossing the street. As time goes on you will start to cross the street when it still says not to because that’s just what Portlanders do, but make sure you feel 100% safe before crossing.
9. Pet dogs.
The university help center usually hosts a therapy dog session around midterms and finals week, which was super important for me. You will pass by so many dogs in this city so make sure that when you get the chance, to say hi, and pet one. The owners will appreciate the connection you make with them, you will feel a sense of happiness, and the dog will enjoy knowing that there are still good people in this world.
10. Go to the farmers market.
If you live on campus, try and go to the farmers market in the park blocks every Saturday. It’s relaxing; there is good entertainment, and a ton of produce that is right there for you. I hardly ever went out on Saturday mornings, but I wish I would of. Not just for the market, but also to force myself to get out for the day.
11. Don’t be too afraid of the homeless.
It’s never a smart idea to approach a random person on the street asking for money, but most of them are pretty nice and are just there minding their own business, so don’t make them feel uncomfortable. If you have some extra change, try sparing some for them. One time I was walking to the minimart and one of them ripped out his harmonica and started shredding and everyone started dancing...he was amazing.
12. Learn how to use public transportation.
In this city there is so many different ways you can get around, especially if you don’t have a car. If you are a student then you can ride the streetcar for free, but if you want to ride the max be sure to buy a ticket even if you are going a few stops away. They are becoming stricter as time goes on, and you don’t want to get a $150 ticket. Moreover, be sure that if you are going to a further location you understand which bus you will need to get on. It’s good to map out how to get somewhere before you get on the bus, and I do that by using the google maps transit app on my smart phone. If none of these options suit you and you would like a more direct route then take an uber or lyft. I prefer lyft because it is cheaper and people are usually less creepy, but make sure to only go with a friend because you never know who you’re going to get. Lastly, if you still are looking for more ways to get around, you could grab a car-to-go which you would need to download an app and set up an account and then you could eventually drive yourself around. OR, you could just walk.
13. Utilize the library.
The library is honestly one of the coolest places on campus. I didn't start using it until halfway through the year, but when I did, I got my work done so much faster, and it's just a fun place to see what else you can learn.
14. Go to the first weeks Viking Days events.
You’re going to think they are stupid, but after a while you might wish that you did go. You meet a plethora of people and if you don’t go you might stick to the first people you meet and realize there were so many other Vikings in the city. Or, go with your new friends to have something to do and even laugh at. Oh, and also, make sure you visit your advisor every once in awhile. You might think you know what you're doing, but you could always use the extra help whether it is from another student, professor, or advisor.
Have a good year everybody, and continue to learn new things everyday.
