I am a second-year student, and my freshman year was great. I loved being able to go out and meet new people, and enjoy myself at all of the free functions my school put on, as well as the free t-shirts. But this year is going to be a lot different, and it saddens me that this year's freshman won't get to enjoy it as my class did.
To keep cases down, we need to make sure we are staying safe and keeping our distance. I know this is hard when all you want to do is see your friends and have fun. Here are ways to keep yourself busy and to get a great start to your freshman year, without letting the pandemic ruin it.
Keep a mask in your bag at all times
It would suck if you are running late to your in-person class and halfway there you realize you forgot your mask. Keep a pack or an extra in one of your bags compartments at all times so that that panic attack can never reach you.
Attend the online school fun
I know it's weird but do it! It's not the same as enjoying them in person but they do their best to make it fun and enjoyable, and who knows maybe you'll like it if your'e one who likes to stay inside, now there's your excuse.
Attend the in person events
I know that my school is still having short in-person functions by reservation and with social distancing measures. If you need a break take it and go enjoy some free stuff! Because as a college student free things are your new best friend.
Get off of your phone and enjoy your new campus
Masked up of course. Explore the area around you, most likely it's a new scene for you and can have some cool things. I came from a small town so moving to a big city was exhilarating for me. I still haven't explored everything around me! It's fun to go with friends and make new memories like that together. Make sure you have somebody with you and keep an eye on your surroundings at all times, while taking everything in.
Make sure to sneak in your homework
If you're bored and stuck in your room make sure you get a head start on your work! It will pay off when your friends want to have something planned on the night before that paper is due and you already have it done, and maybe get some extra sleep.
Find your new study place
I have learned that working and studying outside of your room works a lot better for me than staying in my bed. Many places now have limited space and only can seat one at a table which is perfect! Find your local cafe or outside seating and pick the one you like most it will be worth it.
Exercise
Working out is one of the best stress relievers. Bike or run around campus. Lift weights in your room. Build your core on the floor of your balcony. Anywhere and everywhere you can get a sweat in do it! If your school gym is still putting on classes try and attend if you feel in good health. I know for me it's a lot easier to have a buddy with you to help with motivation.
Email your professor's
Make sure your professor knows who you are! I know it can be scary but trust me there is no need to be scared. They welcome this and would rather you do it. It helps a lot to have a professor know who you are on a more personal level than just a name on a piece of paper. Tell them how excited you are for their class and if you have any questions or concerns they want to know! This pandemic is new for them too and they will most likely be meeting their student with half of their face covered, make sure they remember you.
Make friends with people in your classes
It will help a lot. You guys are all feeling the same way about starting a new class and chances are they want to have a study buddy friend too.
Keep everything clean and yourself healthy
If you are not feeling well let your college know! This cannot be stressed enough. If you are feeling sick stay away from everyone and keep yourself healthy. Make sure that if you do go out you have hand sanitizer, wear a mask, and social distance. Clean your area before and after you use it in the classroom.
Enjoy your first or other year at college. This is truly a once in a lifetime experience so don't stress too much. Make sure to stay safe and check in on your friends.
