Dear Future ODU Students,

Coming to college is a wonderful thing and you chose what I believe to be the best college (I might just be a little bias because I love this school so much). I am sure you are going to read plenty of articles about what to expect when going off to college but here is just one more specifically for ODU.

Do NOT step on the seal

This is one of those traditions that you don’t really know why it is done but it is and so you just don’t do it. Plus, they say you won’t graduate from ODU if you step on the seal so why risk it?

Do ride the lion

The night you ride the lion will be one you remember for the rest of your lives. Most of the time you decide to do it spontaneously with a bunch of your friends which makes it all that much more fun. Make sure you bring people to help you get up though because it is harder than it looks. (PS it doesn’t count if you do it in the winter when the water is off).

Get to know the people on your hall

The majority of my best friends I met from my freshman year dorm hallway. These people will see you at your absolute best and your absolute worst. The first couple of weeks leave your door propped open for people to come in and go out and see other’s dorms. These are going to be the people that are there when you need someone to hold your hair when you went a little too hard one weekend so you want to actually know them.

Don’t spend all your flex right away

The cafeteria may not have the best food but do not spend all your flex right away. Space it out that way you aren’t limiting yourself at the end of the semester when all you have left are meal swipes.

Get to know upperclassmen

If you don’t already have upperclassmen friends try to meet some. These are the people on campus that have cars on campus first of all so when you want a free ride to Cookout that comes in handy. Also though, the upperclassmen are the ones on campus that already know what’s going on and where at so it’s better to know them than to be that freshman wandering the streets on the weekend looking for anything and everything to do.

Don’t wear your lanyard around your neck when going out

One dead giveaway that you are a freshman is the fact that you wear your lanyard around your neck when you leave your dorm. I can not count the amount of times I see this and just laugh because of how funny it is. You will get made fun of for this and won’t hear the end of it.

Go Greek/Get Involved

Now I know Greek life isn’t for everyone but I had to put it in because it is something I think everyone should at least consider. Being Greek has been my favorite part of college and I encourage everyone to give it a chance. Yet, if that isn’t your thing there are over 300+ organizations and clubs on campus so there is something for everyone. Find out where you fit in and what you like to do and get involved.

Bring a rain jacket, rain boots, and a kayak

It rains a lot in Norfolk, and when it rains it floods. A rain jacket and rain boots are absolutely necessary when coming to ODU. Make sure to invest in a good pair too because even if they are going to be a little more expensive it is going to be worth it when you are dry. (Yes, I have seen people kayaking on Kaufman Mall when it floods so this is a very real thing).

Get use to ODU alerts

It is no surprise that ODU is in Norfolk which doesn’t have the best reputation. ODU Alerts are a very real thing and you should get use to getting them in your inbox. Stay smart and avoid going to the bad parts of campus alone and you will be safe. Never walk by yourself, avoid Killiam when it is super late, and always be alert is all I can say about that. There has never been a moment on campus where I haven’t felt unsafe and no one ever should as long as they are being smart.

Avoid Webb during activity hour

Activity hour is every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30-1:30 where there are no classes on campus. Which means every student has an hour long break during prime lunch time. Webb is always packed at this time due to Greek life taking over North Café for tables, other organizations are always hosting booths in the area to promote themselves and their current events. Also, the Panda Express, Chick-Fil-A, Subway, and Starbucks lines are extremely long. If you want to avoid this then I would say avoid Webb.

Mojos on Monday, The Edge on Thursdays

If you are looking for a place to go out to on weekdays just know that everyone goes to Mojos on Mondays and The Edge on Thursdays.

Commuter parking sucks

Parking at ODU sucks, there are not enough spaces for everyone and if you are a commuter you better get to class an hour early if you want a spot. It is like The Hunger Games for parking spaces. May the odds be ever in your favor.

Whitehurst beach is the prettiest part of campus

My favorite spot on campus is Whitehurst Beach. It is right on the water and it is beautiful to see the sunset there. Make sure you make your way out there a couple times to see this because it is one of those views you won’t want to miss.

ODU is a beautiful diverse campus and you should be excited that you get to spend your next four years here. You are going to meet some of the best people at college and just remember your college experience is what you put into it.