Throughout these next summer months, there are many college orientations, the time where you begin all of your college memories. Orientation is very important, and you want to make sure everything is done right and you receive all the info. Here are some tips/tricks/advice to help your orientation be successful!
1. If you know/can, attend the same orientation as your roommate.
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2. Interact with your fellow classmates.
Don't stick to yourself or cling to your parents. You can create so many new friendships that can last a life time. Just step out of your comfort zone. Also, if you can't attend the same orientation as your roommate, you have the opportunity to meet other people you will be spending time throughout the years with. Move in day is a little better when you know more than one friendly face.
3. Take pictures.
On every campus there is something that is significant and unique to the school, so take a picture with it. It is capturing the moment when the journey at your school started
4. Do not be afraid to ask questions.
Never ever be afraid to ask questions. Chances are, if you have a question, someone else in the group may have the same question or a similar one. Get all of the information while you are there. It is a lot easier to ask while in person than trying to find the right person to ask the right question later on.
5. Check out dorms.
If you are able, see if you can look at the different dorms on campus. This way you can see how big or small your room will be which can help you plan better for what you should or shouldn't bring.
Related: 6 Realizations Of An Overcommitted College Student
6. Find out what is/isn't allowed in rooms.
For various reasons, different colleges have different guidelines for what you can have in your room. For example, at my university, you are not allowed to have a microwave in your room. By knowing what you can and cannot have, you will have a better idea of what to purchase for your dorm.
7. Know where the on-campus IT Support is located.
This is very important. More than likely, a technology issue will occur at the worst possible time. Most on-campus IT Support systems will be free of charge to students, so be sure to locate them.
8. Get to know the area around your college.
If you have the time either before or after orientation, take time to get to know the area around your university. This way if you need a pharmacy or grocery store, you know where one is. Also, one important tip: Find a place to go out with your friends when you need a break from dorm food.
9. Take pride in your school early!
Go to the bookstore and get lots of school spirit apparel! Get plenty for you to wear throughout the school year, but be sure to get it for your family, so your family can show their support for your college.
10. Wear comfortable shoes.
You will be doing lots and, I mean lots, of walking so wear shoes you are comfortable walking in. This way, you won't be worrying about how much pain you are in, and you can focus on what is going on and gathering all the information you need.
Taking the right steps at your college orientation can make your transition to college a lot smoother. Hopefully these tips help you have a successful orientation.
