To upcoming students,
New student orientation is one of the hardest processes you will go through as you begin your new page in that school/college. The hardest part about it is trying to fit in. The best part about it is you'll have fun and experience a different kind of life and meet new people. As a student who have gone through this many times, I'll tell you that new student orientation is one an important part of college life and you have to give it your full attention or you'll get lost.
Therefore there are seven tips that you should know before your new student orientation:
1. Make friends.
The friends you meet during orientation could become your best friends in this new journey. They could be the friends who you will eat lunch with and hang out with. Choose your friends wisely because you will be with them for a while.
2. Know places/buildings.
Although new student orientation moves at a fast pace, you should try to memorize some places and directions because they will come in handy on your first days.
3. Wear the right outfit.
For first impression, wear an outfit that could describe your character or an outfit that you always wear if you would go to the movies. Don't wear a sport outfit, large size t-shirt, a see-through shirt, or a skirt. Just keep in thoughts that some people can be judgmental and you don't want people to have the wrong idea about you. Plus, wear something that everyone is wearing, don't be the one standing out because you wear a dress.
4. Know the norms and rules.
Because this is your first time and you want to fit in, ask older students how things run here, such as "What's a good place here to have lunch, nap, or hang out?" or "What parties should I go to?" "Where's the cheapest auto center?" But do not ask older students about your financial aid package, loans, etc... Just find an administrator to talk to about it.
5. Don't over pack.
If your new student orientation includes a sleep over, don't over pack clothes. Trust me, you will not have the time to go back and change. Also if your new student orientation is just one day, don't bring lots of stuff because you will walk around campus carrying it. But do bring your credit card because you will need it in case of emergency.
6. Stay away from your phone.
I've seen so many upcoming students texting their loved ones the whole time in tour and at the end they have no one to talk to. It is better to put your phone aside and meet new people in this new journey.
7. Be friendly and always smile.
No matter what you are going through at that moment, always smile, show gratitude and be cheerful because it will make your experience go better.
As you begin this new journey in your life, I wish you all to have a great experience and good luck.
