First of all, you have picked an amazing school to spend your four years at. Florence, Alabama is one of the South's hidden gems. There's always something to do here, but you still don't lose that small town feel while being at a university. The University of North Alabama is home to some of the leading programs in the state of Alabama, such as nursing and education. With a 20:1 student to faculty ratio and small class sizes, you are not just another face in the classroom. My teachers call on students by name and really make an effort to get to know you, as long as you don't hide in the corner. Beyond academics, campus life and the city life of Florence is pretty great, too. This will sadly be my last year at UNA, and with that, I would like to pass on what I've learned since I was a freshman.
1. Go to class.
I can't emphasize this enough. You may think you won't miss anything, but you probably will. You will lose motivation and your teacher will think you don't care about the class, and you might lose that letter of recommendation later on. You'll learn to love walking to class because the campus is so beautiful.
2. Avoid the Commons like the plague at lunch from 11:00 - 12:30.
I mean it. Unless you want to stand in line for 30 minutes, then go ahead and be my guest. I just advise against it. Either wait or go to the GUC or Tower's; it's much less crowded during lunch.
3. Be careful making out your schedule.
You may think you can make it to 8:00 a.m. classes every day, but you probably won't. Don't schedule a class that lets out at 9:50 in the Science Building and one that starts at 10:00 at Commons or Wesleyan. That's only ten minutes to make it across campus, and some teachers will lock the door. Invest in a bike or take caution when creating your schedule. Make sure you leave a break for lunch or something as well. You will get tired going to four classes straight all day.
4. Learn campus traditions.
Dip your pencil into the fountain the first day of class. Walk by the Victory Flame after a home win. Spend some time with Leo and Una. Go in Wesleyan at night (if you dare). Campus life is full of tradition, some may not be known to others.
5. Get involved early.
Don't wait until junior year to start joining organizations. There are tons of ways to get involved from clubs, to Greek life, to volunteer work, to study abroad and Honors, and beyond. Find what you're interested in, put yourself out there, and don't be afraid to meet new people!
6. The group fitness classes are actually pretty fun.
You already pay for them in your fees, you will get a good workout, and likely make some new friends.
7. Try every restaurant.
Going to Rosie's every Thursday night might sound okay, but you will regret not getting to experience all Florence has to offer. Try Sweet Basil's Cafe. Ricatoni's never disappoints, and La Hacienda's cheese dip is the best around. Try it all, and step out of your comfort zone.
8. Don't even think about finding a parking spot from 9:30-12.
You will end up walking a mile and missing class. If you have a class during those times, leave an extra thirty minutes earlier than you think you need to. It sounds ridiculous, but I have driven around for 45 minutes straight once before ever finding a parking spot.
9. Don't be afraid to ride the bus from your apartment.
It will save gas and get you there one time. You won't have to worry about parking or fighting traffic. It really has been a lifesaver for me sometimes.
10. There will always be people crossing the road, especially on Wood Avenue by the Women's Center, so drive safe.
You don't want to be paying anyone's college tuition. Don't get too distracted by the beautiful neighborhood and the historic houses.
11. Work ahead on assignments.
You will thank yourself later. When it comes time for the end of the semester, you will have more time for papers and won't be behind.
12. Your Mane Card money doesn't roll over from spring semester to fall.
So if you have a remaining balance by April, my best advice is to go to Einstein's and buy all their coffee tumblers or treat your friends
13. If you study on the third floor of the library, respect the no talking rule.
This goes for the Popular Reading room too. Even though there isn't a no talking rule there, please keep it down. Some people are actually trying to study. If you have to talk that much, go outside.
14. Appreciate the history of Florence.
UNA is the oldest public college in Alabama. Florence is busting at the seams with history, and all you have to do is look. The beauty of the city will amaze you if you take the time to appreciate it.
14. Always ask for student discounts.
Jimmy John's gives free drinks with Mane Card. Some places give discounts on oil changes as well. It never hurts to ask.
15. Get to know people in your department.
They will know which professors are awesome and which ones to stay away from. They may or may not let you borrow their old notes, too. (Maybe they won't make you pay).
Coming to UNA was one of the best decisions I ever made. I made some lifelong friends I wouldn't have made elsewhere. I learned to be independent earlier than I would have by going to school closer to home. I expanded my perspective and worldview with the help of some amazing professors. I grew to fall in love with Florence, Alabama, and even though I am a senior and will be leaving soon, a piece of my heart will always bleed purple and gold.
