So, you chose to be a Belle. Awesome! But before you come to campus for real, there are just a few things to know (AKA a few things I learned my first year). I'm not saying all of this is true, but it is at least possible, so definitely hear me out!
1. Domerfest is weird but keep the shirt
Domerfest might be the equivalent of a middle school dance, except you're all adults now. Weird things happen... like, I think I stole some guys hat right off of his head, and I have no idea where it went (sorry, dude). Also, the shirt was super cute the past two years, and I would still wear it if I hadn't gotten bleach on it. Sigh.
2. You will not be friends with the same people all year as you were the first month
That is just how it goes. The first month everyone is excited to be there and is ready to make friends, but soon enough you'll realize who actually clicks with you and who doesn't.
3. Always, always charge your laptop
This is so important, I can not count a number of times I should have charged my laptop and didn't! Also never forget your charger.
4. Never procrastinate an essay
Because you might have an essay due the next day and think you will have time to write it until there is a tornado warning and you have to go to the basement of your dorm... and your laptop is going to die. True story.
5. Do not walk to a party in downtown South Bend
Sure, you want to save money and get some exercise, but do not do this. It is so dangerous, or at least has a ton of potential to be. Just have everyone pitch in for a $15 Uber ride. Or call Marky Mark.
6. Download Uber and Venmo
You will need it. Uber is your ride and Venmo is how people pay you back for... the necessities of college. Don't wait until last minute because you'll be trying to figure everything out and you won't have enough service to download the app super quick.
7. If you're going to get a fake, get a big group
I'm not saying I condone this illegality, but, if you're going to get a fake don't pay $70. Get a huge group and then the price will go down - and trust me, someone will want to go in with you, just ask.
8. Buy a rain jacket, or bring one
I thought I would be okay with a rain pullover, but I was wrong. Just go the extra mile and buy a rain jacket and you won't regret it.
9. Winter clothes, bring them
Parka, gloves, thermal leggings, fuzzy socks, winter boots... you will need it all. Tailgating for Notre Dame can get super cold (and so can walking to class), and you will want to be prepared and not buy everything last minute from the bookstore.
10. Treat yourself to coffee often
Or Starbucks. If you aren't signed up for their rewards, I recommend doing so. While studying anywhere on campus is nice, the Inn is a nice place to study (and has Starbucks), and so is the actual Starbucks 5 minutes down the road.
11. Avoid the bookstore
The first month I was like, "OMG the bookstore", and my wallet was like, "OMG no!". We are all proud to be a Belle, but you really should refrain from dropping $60 on that super cute shirt you want. My advice? Wait until your family comes to visit.
12. Enjoy your time in McCandless (or Regina)
While moving up to Holy Cross or Le Mans is so rewarding, there is nothing quite like the freshman dorm life, or living in your first dorm room. Live it up while you can!
13. Bring a bucket and a fan
Why? Because the first month or so the dorms get really hot (yay for no A.C.!). Fill a big bucket with ice, put a fan behind it, and you have a man-made A.C. You're welcome.
14. Just get your W out of the way
Your advisor will recommend this anyway, but your W course will probably have a heavy course load, so just stick it out (don't slack off), and get it out of the way as soon as you can. That way you can focus more on your major/minor courses.
15. You didn't need a planner before but you will now
They're actually perfect for reminding you that you have a "hell week" coming up, and they keep you from losing your mind.
16. You will feel like you have no idea what you're doing
...and that's okay. Enough said.
17. Get involved
But not too involved. Join some clubs, do activities, go to hall events/campus events. Keep yourself busy and find yourself, because chances are you will change a lot from who you were as a high schooler.
18. Beware the Notre Dame guys
This is actually a joke, but some of them can be kind of weird, so just keep that in mind.
19. Always be stocked with silverware and plates
Because pizza, or microwave meals, or ice cream. Cyber closes pretty early and you will be screwed. Just sayin'.
20. Always tip your delivery driver
Specifically Jimmy Johns - from the girl who ordered Jimmy John's literally every day, the drivers are all decent people. My sandwich was only late once, and he had a legitimate reason. I can't defend Papa John's though. If they're late, do what you've gotta do.
