Starting Strong: Freshman Year Reminders
by College Advising Team | Aug 12, 2025 | College Admissions
The transition to college can be exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between. Whether you’re stepping onto campus with a packed schedule or still finding your rhythm, the first year is full of opportunities to grow academically, socially, and personally. Below are some reminders to help you navigate this new chapter with confidence, balance, and a sense of purpose.
Academics:
Attend all classes:
This is crucial for staying on top of the material and building a strong foundation.
Professors distribute their syllabus in the first couple days of class. This is an outline of the semester that contains important information like due dates, test dates, and expectations. Read this completely and keep this handy!
Manage your time effectively:
Create a schedule that balances classes, studying, extracurriculars, exercise and social activities. You did some of this in high school, but it will be very important in college.
Utilize campus resources:
Take advantage of tutoring services, writing centers, and academic advising to get support when needed. Help is available on each campus so be sure to reach out. Your professor, advisor or resident hall coordinator can help. Many residential halls host tutoring opportunities on site.
Connect with professors:
Relationships are important! Go to professor’s office hours, participate in class, and build relationships with your instructors. This is scary at first, but professors want to get to know you and welcome the discussion.
Form study groups:
Collaborating with classmates can make learning more engaging and effective. Get to know at least one person in each class.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help:
College personnel expect students to seek assistance, whether it’s academic, personal, or financial.
Social Life:
Get involved:
Join clubs, organizations, or intramural sports teams that align with your interests. Colleges have hundreds of organizations and if there is not one that fits, you can usually create one following campus guidelines.
Attend orientation and welcome events:
These are great opportunities to meet new people and explore the campus. Ask a neighbor in your dorm to go with you!
Connect with your roommate and classmates:
Living in the residence halls is a great way to make new friends. The residence hall coordinator usually plans get to know activities. Check bulletin boards in the residence halls and around campus as activities are posted there.
Well-being:
Prioritize your physical and mental health:
Make time for exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep. So important! Check out the recreation center, walking trails or outdoor adventure clubs.
Manage stress:
Find healthy ways to cope with the challenges of college life, such as exercise, mindfulness, or spending time with friends.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help:
Counseling services are available to support students’ mental health. You can usually make an appointment online.