How to Slay Freshman Year: Tips to Have a Smooth Transition from Ambassador Charlotte
Coming into freshman year can be super scary- especially when you’re coming from out of state like me! I came to USC from Colorado, pretty much knowing no one. Whether you come in ready to roll or if you’re a bit nervous, it’s possible for anyone to have a smooth transition into college if you follow these four tips!
Join Clubs or Find a Job
It can be challenging to meet new people in college, but it’s even harder to find lasting connections and get to know people on a deeper level. Being a part of a club or having a job ensures you will see the same people multiple times a week or month and actually get to know them! It can also connect you with upperclassmen who can be a great support system and offer advice. Everyone is going through or has gone through the same thing as you, but being involved in the community helps to feel a bit more connected to other students.
Get to know your roommate
Your roommate can be one of your closest friends if you put in the effort! I had a random roommate my freshman year, but we ended up being best friends and we live together again this year! Some people prefer to get to know their roommate before school starts, but either way it is important to respect and connect with the person you live with! Your living situation can have a huge impact on your overall experience, so finding common ground with whoever you live with is so important. Also, make sure you consider what style of housing you’re comfortable with before you move in. No one likes to move mid-semester because of roommate conflict or a building you hate.
Attend class!!!
College is very different from high school because of the newfound freedom you have. You’re living alone and no one is going to call your parents if you don’t go to class. It might not seem like it, but it’s super easy to fall behind if you get in the habit of missing classes. Every missed class prevents you from fully understanding the material, not to mention it’s a waste of money! Attending class is one of the easiest ways to connect with the professor, understand the topics, and get a good grade in the class (participation counts)! If you’re not a morning person, don’t schedule classes you know you can’t attend.
Take Everything Day by Day
College can seem overwhelming, especially as a freshman. Take everything day by day and keep in mind that things happen for a reason. Sometimes it can feel like every inconvenience is the end of the world, but most things won’t matter a year from now! Try not to focus too much on the future and don’t compare yourself to others. If you’re feeling stressed, just take things one class, assignment or event at a time. Your freshman year may be challenging at times, but it will fly by! By the end of it, you will come out a stronger and more resilient person, and you’ll know that USC is your home.
Charlotte represents USC Annenberg Admissions as both a student intern and a school ambassador!
