Hey there, freshman Badgers! Stepping onto the UW-Madison campus two years ago as an incoming freshman, I vividly remember the overwhelming combination of excitement and nervousness that I felt. With thousands of students walking around and countless organizations on campus, finding your people at such a big university can seem hard at times. Here are three tips based on my personal experience to help you find your place at UW-Madison…
- Explore your interests beyond the classroom: Whether you’re passionate about sports, the arts, or the environment, there’s bound to be a student organization or club for you. With nearly 1,000 clubs and organizations, the Student Organization Fair on Tuesday, September 10th & Wednesday, September 11th at the Kohl Center is your ticket to meeting like-minded individuals and discovering interests beyond academics. Attend a few meetings, participate in events, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
- Take advantage of campus resources (this is one thing that I regret not doing sooner): UW-Madison offers a variety of resources to support your academic and personal growth. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors or academic advisors if you need guidance or support. Building strong relationships with faculty and staff members can also open doors to valuable opportunities in the near future!
- Embrace the Wisconsin experience: Make sure to set aside some time to explore Lake Mendota, take a walk down State Street, attend a football game at Camp Randall Stadium, or simply sit on top of Bascom Hill. My personal favorite is the Picnic Point walk at sunset. These experiences not only create lasting memories but also create a sense of pride in being part of the UW-Madison community.
Welcome to the UW-Madison family and go Badgers!