Perle Badohu – Staff Writer

Going to university and entering a different level of our lives has never been easy, especially when we arrive in a place where everyone seems to know more than we do. 

But fortunately for us, everyone also seems to go through this “newbies” phase. Today, I’ll give you a couple of tips and resources to be ready to go into your coming years more prepared. So, I present to you: “Tips from Freshmen who made it”. These tips won’t just help you to survive, they will also help you to enjoy your time here. 

Graphic courtesy of Gabby Lalonde

Don’t fear the Freebies 

Campus events usually mean free food, novelty t-shirts and complimentary snacks. Don’t think too much and just go check it out, your stomach and your wallet will thank you. Trust me. 

Manage your time 

College offers a lot of freedom, so it’s easy to get lost and postpone what we have to do until the next day. Using a planner or a calendar to schedule study sessions or even meals or breaks can really help you stay connected to what you have to do. 

Befriend your RAs 

Residence assistants are not just there to reinforce the rules; they are also there to help you navigate the hacks for dorm life, from fixing a jammed washing machine to sneaking in extra toilet paper. They are also there to listen to you and help you with any problems you’re willing to share with them. 

Decorate your dorm like it’s your home

Being away from home, especially for the first time, can be very challenging. But even when a place is not familiar to us, there is always a way to make it warmer and in our image. Don’t hold back, let your creativity create the best cocoon for you. 

Be open-minded 

College is as much about discovering yourself and what is good for you as it is about earning a degree. Don’t stop yourself from exploring ideas, courses outside your major and friendships beyond your comfort zone. 

Try something ridiculous once 

It could be anything, ultimate frisbee, a dance lesson, improv club…you’ll find either a new passion or a fun story to tell. 

Protect your sleep 

Late-night study sessions can seem like a good idea sometimes, but sleep deprivation is no joke and could impact your memory and your ability to focus. Be careful, try to get your eight hours of sleep, and if you’re tired during the day, try a 20-minute power nap. 

Don’t take yourself too seriously 

Freshman year is an awkward year for everyone. The better thing to do is to embrace the chaos, laugh rather than cry at your mistakes and don’t forget that no one actually has everything figured out!

With all those tips, I hope you will feel better about your first steps at university. I hope you will feel confident in what you choose to do. Don’t let anyone discourage you, and above all, enjoy to the fullest. University is not forever!