9 Helpful Tips for First-Year Students
Tips and insights to help you navigate your first year with confidence
Moving from your hometown to college takes a lot of adjusting. Stepping onto campus can bring excitement and nerves. A few key tips can make the transition smoother. To save you some stress, we surveyed students on the top things they wished someone had told them before the start of their first year at college.
1. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away.
College is a place for discovering who you are: your interests, your strengths, your goals and sometimes even your values. It’s not realistic to think you must pick the perfect major (and stick with it) or immediately find a dream career path or keep the same group of friends forever. Things change and that’s okay. It’s normal to explore different classes, try out new things, switch directions or experience a shift in your relationships. Growth isn’t linear and figuring it out as you go is part of the college experience.
2. Get involved as much as possible.
First year is a time of discovery and new experiences. At SHU, there are many ways to get involved, from fraternity & sorority life to clubs, sports and more. Take advantage of these opportunities and allow yourself to try new things and meet new people. Here’s a tip: The Just SHU It Involvement Fair is a great opportunity for students to see the many clubs and organizations the University offers. Stop by and try something new!
3. Everyone feels out of place—at first.
No, it’s not just you. It’s easy to look around and assume everyone else has already found their best friends, joined all the right clubs and settled in perfectly, but that’s rarely the case. Most people are just as nervous as you are. Feeling homesick or unsure is completely normal. The important thing is to give yourself time and patience. Keep showing up, keep saying yes to little things and, eventually, you’ll find your routine, your people and your place.
4. Prioritize yourself and your well-being.
It’s normal to get carried away in the initial thrill of college, but it’s important to stay on top of your classes while also making time for sleep, healthy eating and exercise. Take advantage of the services at SHU’s Valetine Health & Recreation Center and the food offerings at Balance Kitchen. Taking care of your body and mind helps you handle stress and remain energized. Finding that balance early on makes everything feel a lot more manageable.
5. Office hours are your secret weapon.
Office hours are one of the most essential, yet often overlooked, tools for academic success. They are not just designated for people with particularly challenging majors or who are struggling academically. For example, when you are unclear about the direction for a paper, visiting a professor during office hours can make a huge difference. SHU professors want to get to know their students. They appreciate it when you make the effort to stop by and discuss your ideas and concerns. It’s perfect for discussing a project, seeking clarification or even chatting about career goals.
6. Look out for free food events.
What’s better than an event that connects you with fellow students? One with free food! At SHU, many clubs, organizations and departments are as generous with opportunities to connect as they are with free food. It can be a bingo night, a trivia event or a club gathering. These events are not just about the free pizza that’s being offered; they are also about the campus community coming together. Whether you’re grabbing to go or staying to chat, it’s an opportunity for students to unwind, meet new people and make the big campus seem a little smaller.
7. Doing laundry is going to get a lot more complicated.
This is an unfortunate reality of living in a residence hall, but it is a very real lesson you’ll want to learn sooner rather than later. Machines will fill up fast. Some advice? Plan your loads, set a timer and be aware of the slow hours. Spoiler alert: Doing laundry early in the morning or late at night on Thursdays tends to be the time students have the best luck. Always have backup laundry pods, a laundry basket with sturdy handles and a dryer sheet to keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean.
8. Your roommate does not need to be your best friend, and that’s okay!
While some roommates form close friendships right away, it is important to remember that not being best friends is completely okay. A residence hall is a shared living space, and a strong personal connection isn’t required for a positive experience. What matters most is having honest conversations about boundaries and living styles. Establishing clear expectations early on can lead to fewer conflicts and a more comfortable environment. In many cases, students who maintain mutual respect and communication end up having fewer issues than those who assume they have found the perfect match.
9. Lean on your first-year experience (FYE) assistant; they’ve been in your shoes!
FYE assistants have been through the same transition and understand what you’re experiencing. Ask about their first-year journey, what helped them or even ask about the best coffee on campus. They’re not just there for class; they are a resource for navigating SHU both inside and outside the classroom. Don’t hesitate to reach out, they genuinely want to support you!
Remember, SHU is here to ensure your first year at college is a great one. Check out the First 50 Days when you arrive on campus. These non-stop events will help you stay involved and allow you to meet friends. If you’re struggling academically, there is the Center for Teaching & Learning and if you don’t feel well, physically or mentally, there’s health services and the wellness center. Residential life can help with any of your housing needs. Don’t worry, you are well on your way to becoming a successful Pioneer!
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