As a freshman, it is always frustrating to start a new journey with a completely new background and no high school friends around. As a senior who also experienced freshman year, let me give you a few tips to adapt to UW-Madison. After reading this blog, I guarantee you will be an ORIGINAL BADGER just like I am.
Tip 1: Find your own favorite place
This may sound strange, but I believe that delicious meal is the top priority when adapting to a new environment. Of course, UW-Madison has fantastic dining options like Gordon and Rheta’s. However, you might get tired of them if you eat there all the time. So, check out my top three recommended places for a tasty change of pace!
- Chipotle
- Halong Bay
- Statestreet Brat
All three places are located within 20 minutes from Grainger Hall. Chipotle might seem like a weird option, but I guarantee that when it comes to midterms and finals, Chipotle is the best place to save time and satisfy your hunger. Halong Bay is a famous Vietnamese restaurant, and as for State Street Brats, I won’t say more. Just try their brats!
Tip 2: Join Student Organization!
Wishing to find your life buddy who shares similar hobbies and interests? Joining a student organization is the best approach for finding your ideal college-mate. Join a student organization that you are interested in! Personally, I made three best friends from a student organization, and we’ve been roommates for three years. Also, don’t hesitate to socialize! We Badgers always love socializing anywhere! Be brave and approach others.
- Student Organization (Use this link for joining student organization!)
Tip 3: Be badger, feel Madison
University of Wisconsin-Madison is very popular for its beautiful landscape and buildings. In fact, various students study not only in the library, but also in harmony with nature. Even if it is not study, I talk with my friends in beautiful places. I will tell you three places, so make sure to visit!
- Bascom Hill
- Lake Mendota
Need an explanation? You’ll find yourself here at least ten times, if not a hundred. This river is iconic to our school and a favorite spot for all Badgers. In the summer, you can enjoy various activities such as yachting, surfing, and kayaking. In the winter, you can even walk on it when it’s frozen!
I can’t wait for you to explore these amazing places at UW-Madison and create unforgettable experiences. Go BADGER!