Any beginning is usually challenging, like the first semester at college. Coming from a different country or city imposes even more challenges. Today I will share some tips on how to blend in the campus and start making the most out of your college experience as an incoming freshmen.
First things first, you have to be proactive. There are a lot of opportunities here on campus, from student clubs to jobs. I did not take any of these to my advantage in my first year, which significantly decreased my college experience.
In my sophomore year, I started looking into student clubs, an excellent way to connect to people and make new friends. I joined the Badger Parkour Club since I liked jumping and doing flips for a long time.
here is me flying off the ground (doing parkour jumps)
Office hours were another thing that helped me find a supportive group. They helped both academically and socially. In terms of academics, of course, I can ask questions about homework and get the explanation I need. In terms of socializing, you get to know some of your classmates who are struggling in some of the areas you are in, and hence, you can study together and maybe create a friendship.
Last but not least, use the resources that the university provides. For example, book the study rooms, the podcast rooms, and many more services available for you as a student. This helps in giving you a greater sense of belonging to the place since you don’t just go to the classroom and back home, but you instead utilize the assets that the other students are using and enjoying.