If you're reading this, you're either a great friend or you've decided to join the CANE FAMILY!! If the former is the case, WELCOME TO THE U! First off, let me start by saying that you've made a great choice. Here are a few tips to help make the first year a bit smoother.
1. Don't Stress
College is a big step. Don't stress yourself out if you don't know exactly what you want to do. Some people come into college knowing exactly what they want because they've been dreaming about it their whole life. If you don't, that's okay. Take the first year to learn the ropes and acclimate to your environment. However, if you just can't help the stress that comes with finals, you're in for a treat here. Miami does whatever it can to help relieve stress (and yes, that includes bringing puppies).
2. Take Advantage Of EVERY Opportunity
With every new environment, comes new opportunities. And let me tell you...Miami has A LOT Has an incoming student, go to orientation. Yeah, some of it may not be the most exciting events of your life but, take the time to learn more about the school, and meet some new people. During orientation, there is this great event that will have all the clubs, a bunch of free stuff, and it's another chance to meet more people---especially those with the same interests.
3. Don't Overwhelm Yourself
Miami is a wonderful place and has some many things to do, but don't get caught up in it. Signing up for too many things is a mistake everyone makes. Take your first year to learn the ropes. You don't want to be involved in too many things especially during your first semester. If you are the type of person who can handle a lot on their plate, then do you. However, keep in mind that you are in a new environment, and you still need to make sure that your academics come first.
4. Know your priorities and stay organize
These are the most important things to remember. These are the two things that will help you succeed. Keep your priorities straight. Having a good time is important but remember why you are here. School should come first. Life will be easier for you if you stay organized. It will also be easier to maintain your priorities. Keep a calendar, it won't hurt to have a hard copy of everything and even keep one on your phone. It allows you to not only have a clear schedule of free time but it also alleviates some of the stress you may have. Use highlighters to signify different things. It keeps you organized and makes things easier to read. If you're a busy person, it saves a lot of time.
5. Have Fun!
You are in Miami. How many people have the luxury to go to the beach whenever they feel like it? There is so much to do in Miami. Miami is a cultural melting pot, so you can never get bored. Go crazy with school spirit, maybe even paint your body orange and green. Just make sure when the time comes you know how to correctly throw up 'the U.'
College is the place where you gain lifelong friends and create unforgettable memories. Even better, you get to do all of it in a place like Miami. Oh, and always remember... IT'S ALL ABOUT THE U, BABY!
