So, it is a known fact that school starts this month and most people are dreading going back to class, but I am sure that there are a select few who are excited, and there are many more who are nervous.
I realize that within the next few weeks freshman orientations on campuses all across the States will be starting, and I couldn't be more excited. Yes, I am a senior, so I have already been through orientation, but it was such a fun time. As an upperclassman I enjoy seeing new faces on campus, including the bright-eyed bushy-tailed freshmen who still can't believe that they are in college and can't wait to see what the next four years will be like. As a former Residential Assistant, meeting those students was the highlight of my year. So here are some things that incoming freshmen should be told.
It is okay to be overly prepared.
The worst thing about move in day was realizing how many things I forgot, but the next year I made sure to remember to bring those things times 2. Most RAs will have things available for their residents, but it doesn't hurt to have those things in case you get a first-year RA who is figuring out a different world within the universe of college. There is a good thing about not having everything you need: roommate Walmart runs. Every year you see Walmart flooded with pairs of students doing extreme last minute shopping or heading to the fish section to add a new roommate. This time is a great time to bond with the person you will be sharing a living space with, and a great way to learn how to shop for yourself by yourself.
It's nice to see your family on weekends, but making memories is even better.
One of the biggest obstacles that Residential Life faces is getting people to stay on campus on weekends. This is easier for people at bigger schools, but at a small school we have to work harder to create an environment that encourages students to stay. Let's face it, you miss home. You miss seeing your friends that you have had for years. You miss YOUR bed. You may even miss your annoying younger sibling. While you go home to stop missing those things, you miss opportunities for life long memories. If I had gone home every weekend freshman year, I wouldn't have the friends I have now. Going to football games, social club events, and random free events on campus allowed me to leave the safety net that was my room and make memories, meet new people, and learn how to appreciate a new life of young adulthood. But while you are making new memories and friends, be sure to check in from time to time because your parents miss you and we all know you miss them too.
So as you are packing for your freshman year of college, be open to opportunities for new adventures, new friends, and the inevitable 8 am classes.
