My second year at BGSU is quickly approaching. I have learned and discovered so much at BGSU already that I would like to share with incoming first years.
1. Walking through the union oval sometimes takes more time.
Doesn't make much sense, but if you walk behind buildings or beside the graveyard, it will take less time to get to the other side of campus.
2. Keep in mind how far apart academic buildings are when scheduling.
Back-to-back classes only allow 10 minutes between them most of the time. You may be running to class if it's on the other side of campus.
3. Don't use all your falcon dollars at the Union.
Seems tempting at first, but then it's not even halfway through the semester and you're low on falcon dollars. Skip the Starbucks and go to a dining hall.
4. The library is a perfect study place.
There are no distractions and it is so easy to get work done. I camp out there before exams.
5. Put the housing deposit down as soon as possible.
If you haven't already, stop what are you doing and pay that $200 housing deposit. It makes a huge difference when picking out housing.
6. Get involved.
Even as a first year, it is time to start getting involved and learning. Join a club that interests you right away!
7. Rush.
I regret not rushing a sorority my first year. Even if you think you are not the type of person to rush a fraternity or sorority, try it anyway. You may love it or you could drop.
8. Bring a streaming device, like an Apple TV.
Yes, BGSU has cable but it is not the best... Bring a streaming device so you can watch Netflix on your TV whenever.
9. Downtown has some pretty cool places to visit.
Downtown Bowling Green is a short walk. Take advantage of all the cool shops and restaurants.
10. Go out to the bars at least once.
It's pretty fun and you meet a lot of people when you go out.
11. Bring your car to campus.
I didn't bring my car until after Labor Day weekend, but I'm very happy that I did. I use it every weekend and it is so much easier for my parents because they don't have to pick me up. I just drive home.
12. You can only park without a permit after 7:30pm, Mondays through Fridays.
Or else parking services will write you up.
13. Breakfast at Carillon is the best.
This is where I go every weekend for breakfast. It is so good and served all day until 3pm.
14. Get to know the people around you.
Whether is it in your dorm or in your classes, these people will become your best friends.
15. STUDY.
College is completely different than high school. Make sure your do all your assignments and study.
16. Get into a habit of having a planner or calendar.
Sometimes, the teachers do not tell you a due date is coming up. I suggest going through all your syllabi and marking down dates in a planner.
17. Make sure you have a laptop.
Every class uses a laptop and classes are mostly based off one too.
18. When it is warm, go outside.
Embrace the rare warm weather and go outside!!!!
19. Bring a raincoat.
It will rain on your way to class so avoid getting soaked and wear a raincoat.
20. Freshman 15 is a real thing.
Sadly, you cannot eat everything you want and not gain weight. Head to the Rec whenever possible.
21. Don't bring an umbrella.
The BG wind will ruin it. RIP to my Michigan umbrella. If you do bring one though, make sure it is one of the those clear ones that act like a dome around your head.
22. Canvas will become your best friend.
Canvas is where you will find everything for your classes. It seems hard to navigate at first, but it becomes easier.
23. Download the BGSU App.
This app has everything from where the shuttles are, to the menu for the dining halls to what laundry machines are being used at that moment.
24. Take the bus in the winter.
If you time it right, you can take the bus everywhere.
25. Listen to music while walking.
Almost everyone does this and it makes a walk more entertaining.
26. Buy a good coat.
Seriously. Buy a coat that reaches your ankles because the winter is brutal.
27. The fourth floor of the union is the equivalent of the library.
It is just as quiet, just with less people.
28. Don't let the graveyard scare you.
You'll most likely forget it is there.
I hope your first year at BGSU is just as great as mine has been so far. Keep these things in mind and you'll be ahead of the game your first week there! Good luck!
