Freshman orientation is right around the corner for members of the Class of 2020. For some it is simply a jam-packed weekend full of ice breakers, tours and way too much information to digest. For me, it was a WHOLE WEEK and to be quite honest, I really didn’t like it. I do feel quite bad for saying that because so many people went to great lengths to make it a really fun and exciting week. Looking back, I recognize now why I had such a negative experience and I want to share tips here that will help incoming freshman survive their orientation and enjoy it more than I did!
Me and my roommate Delaney at an orientation event. Little did I know at that time that we would turn out to be best friends 🙂
- Don’t be afraid to miss some of the events. I had some serious FOMO going on during orientation. I felt like if I skipped even some of the events that I wouldn’t have the chance to meet new friends or I would miss out on some vital college information. I was so tired from going to everything which made me cranky and then I didn’t enjoy the events I actually wanted to be at! Remember to take care of yourself, skip the scavenger hunt and unpack your dorm room instead.
- That being said, push yourself outside of your comfort zone! Go up to that group of people and introduce yourself, get to know the people on your floor and reach out to your RA. If you hide in your room the whole time, you won’t see what opportunities are out there.
- Find a buddy but don’t be afraid to let go. If you find a buddy at the beginning of the week (I suggest your roommate but I am biased because I lucked out in the roommate category) then you will have an ‘automatic friend’ and all the events. However, it is also good to branch out so make sure you are allowing them and yourself to meet new people.
- Talk to someone you normally wouldn’t and refrain from judgement. To be completely honest, I was so judgmental during orientation week. I really wish that I would have pushed all of that out so that I could keep an open mind when meeting people and experiencing orientation week.
- Call home. Sometimes hearing your family or friend’s voices can be really comforting. Tell them all about your experiences.
What are you most excited for during orientation? Do you have any funny orientation stories you would like to share? Comment them below!
6 comments
Your roommate sounds amazing. I wish my roommate was that cool!
HAHA I love you.
These are such helpful tips! I start uni this fall and I’m looking for and guidence I can get to make it a good time right out of the gates. Thanks so much!
I am so glad that they were helpful Allie! Good luck starting school, I am sure it is going to be great.
I was an Orientation Leader this year and I have to say that I wish everyone could have seen these tips! We really try to get everyone out of their comfort zones, but it really helps if students are willing to try. Great post by the way 🙂
Thank you so much Bria! That is awesome that you were an orientation leader. I bet that was a great experience!
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