As a student orientation leader, I have seen approximately 2,300 freshman coming to Georgia State University. Every morning, my team and I introduce ourselves and each give them a piece of advice. Georgia State has about 52,000 students in total, so it’s only fair that everyone else also gets to hear them as well. We all chose our piece of advice and I’ve also included what I believe each of them mean - some more straightforward than others. Hope these help out a few of you who are looking to enjoy a great year here at GSU!
1. “Get to know your advisors.” – Myles Bostic
You won’t have the same advisor all 4 years that you’re at school but it is a very great idea to meet them and build a relationship. Your advisor sees hundreds of other students as well so don’t think that you emailing them once is going to cut it.
2. “Stay on top of your academics.” – Eric Brown
It’s easy to get caught up in college and forget the main reason you’re there, which is to graduate and earn your bachelor’s degree.
3. “Get involved on campus.”- Kristanna Barnes
There are numerous of organizations one can join in college. There is always something for someone and if there isn’t then start your own organization.
4. “Don’t lose the HOPE Scholarship.” – Kimberly Rojo (AKA me)
It might not hurt your bank account but your parents will say differently. It can seem like no big deal but you won't be saying the same thing when your parents make you pay for it yourself.
5. “Go to class.”- Eleena Nikfarjam
You’d think this was implied but many student just don’t go class. But you're paying for this education so don’t waste the money.
6. “Study abroad.” – Lynesia Denson
This is the perfect opportunity for you to go out there and travel and experience something completely different than what you are used to.
7. “Never be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.”- Janeeva Conant
It can be a bit scary to do things that you're not accustomed to but don’t let that fear hold you back.
8. "Practice persistence.”- Nadirah Muhammad
Don't be discouraged when life is throwing dodge balls your way. Stay strong and determined.
9. “Get a planner.” - Myky Troung
This is honestly the best way for you to get organized and a perfect way to manage your time.
10. “Find your passion.” - Tatiana Zapata
This is your time to discover who you are and what you love. Explore your options and find the right thing for you.
11. “Keep an open mind.” - Mary Sikora
This is the time for exploration. The time to try new things. So don't just stay in your bubble. Try to have different perspectives when attempting something foreign to you.
12. “Stay focused.” - Sara Moreno Duque
It can be easy to get caught up in the whole 'college experience' but don't forget why you can here in the first place.
13. “Invest in yourself." - Abigail Vanderwolf
Don't get caught up in everybody else's world. Remember to make time for yourself and make yourself a priority.
14. “Join GSU's student government association.”- Magie Huynh
There are over 400 organizations at GSU and a big one is SGA.
15. “Meet somebody new everyday.”- Rossanna Hernandez Mitchell
When you go to a school that has thousands of students, it can be incredibly easy to meet new people. Whether you sit with a 'rando' in the dining hall or talk to someone, it can be very easy.
16. “Get to know your professors.”- Chau Nguyen
This is the piece if advise that everyone will basically tell you but they say it because it's a good one.
17. “Get involved with intramurals.”- Jusu Sirleaf
Don't just be a couch potato, get out and moving. So maybe you're not college level at basketball, but you can still do it for fun. It's a great way to meet people and have fun at the same time.
