College Prep: Summer Life Skills & Growth

The summer before college presents a unique window for high school graduates. Graduates have opportunities for personal growth. Personal growth includes gaining independence. Independence often involves practical life skills. Life skills such as managing finances. Students can use the summer to prepare for college life. College life includes navigating a new social environment. Graduates also use the summer to relax and recharge after academic pursuits. The summer is a crucial transition period. Transition period allows graduates to prepare both mentally and practically for the next chapter.

Welcome to the University Life!

Hey there, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed future grads! So, you’re officially in the big leagues, huh? University life is finally here! It’s like stepping onto a rollercoaster – thrilling, maybe a little terrifying, and definitely a whole lotta new experiences coming your way. Think of this guide as your trusty sidekick, your Gandalf, or your fairy godparent, here to help you navigate the sometimes-crazy, often-amazing world of higher education.

We get it. You’re probably feeling a mix of pure excitement (parties! friends! learning!) and maybe a dash of “oh my gosh, am I really ready for this?” (exams! bills! laundry!). It’s completely normal! This guide is designed to be your chill pill and your roadmap all rolled into one. We’re going to tackle some of the biggest hurdles you’ll face, turning those “uh-ohs” into “aha!” moments.

What’s on the menu, you ask? Think of this guide as a seven-course meal for university success. We’re dishing out advice on everything from mastering your finances (because ramen noodles every night aren’t a sustainable life choice) and acing those tough classes (yes, even the ones at 8 AM) to finding the perfect pad (dorm life, here we come!), keeping your body and mind in tip-top shape, and tech tips to stay connected. We’ll even help you dive into campus life and introduce you to a ton of useful resources.

But hey, knowledge is only half the battle! We’re also going to emphasize the importance of being proactive. No one is going to hold your hand, so be ready to speak up and make choices about your career, academics or life in general. And seriously, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Burnout is not a cute look. University is an incredible journey, but it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, breathe, and remember why you started. You got this! Now, let’s dive in!

Mastering Your Finances: A Student’s Guide

College is an exciting time, filled with new experiences and newfound freedom. But let’s be real, it also comes with a whole new level of financial responsibility. Don’t worry, though! This guide is here to help you navigate the world of student finances and avoid those common money pitfalls. Consider this your crash course in adulting – the financial edition!

Opening a Student Bank Account: Your Financial Hub

So, you’re officially a student! Time to ditch that piggy bank and get a real bank account. Think of it as your financial home base. A dedicated student bank account offers a ton of perks.

• Why a student account? It keeps your student funds separate from your everyday spending. This makes budgeting way easier.
• Features to look for:
  • Low or no monthly fees. Every penny counts when you are a student.
  • Convenient ATM access. You don’t want to run across town just to grab some cash.
  • User-friendly online and mobile banking. Pay bills, transfer money, and check your balance on the go!
• Bank recommendations: Do some research! Look for banks or credit unions that have a good reputation with students. Talk to your friends and see where they bank. Places like local credit unions are often a great choice because they tend to have lower fees and may offer higher interest on savings.

Tackling Student Loans: Knowledge is Power

Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: student loans. It can seem scary, but understanding the ins and outs will empower you to make smart decisions.

• Federal vs. Private Loans: Federal loans are typically offered by the government and come with certain protections, like income-driven repayment options. Private loans are offered by banks and other lenders and may have different terms and conditions.
• Repayment Options: There’s more than one way to skin a cat (or pay back a loan)! Familiarize yourself with options like:
  • Income-driven repayment: Your monthly payments are based on your income and family size.
  • Standard repayment: Fixed monthly payments over a set period.
  • Graduated repayment: Payments start low and increase over time.
• Minimizing Debt:
  • Don’t borrow more than you need. Live like a student, not a celebrity!
  • Make interest payments while in school (if possible). This can significantly reduce the total amount you owe.

Budgeting Like a Pro with Apps: Your Financial GPS

Budgeting doesn’t have to be a drag. In fact, it can be kind of fun, especially with the help of some awesome budgeting apps.

• Top Budgeting Apps:
  • Mint: A popular choice that connects to all your accounts and provides a clear overview of your spending.
  • YNAB (You Need a Budget): A zero-based budgeting system that helps you allocate every dollar.
  • PocketGuard: Simplifies budgeting by showing you how much you have “In My Pocket” after setting aside funds for bills and goals.
• Creating a Budget:
  • List your income. (Include everything. All of it.)
  • Track your expenses. (Every latte, every pizza slice. Every. Single. One.)
  • Identify areas to save. (Cutting back on those daily coffees can really add up!)
• Sticking to Your Budget:
  • Set realistic goals. (Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a perfect budget.)
  • Review your budget regularly. (Make adjustments as needed.)
  • Don’t beat yourself up over slip-ups. (Just get back on track!)

Credit Cards: Use Wisely!

A credit card can be a useful tool for building credit, but it can also be a dangerous weapon if not handled responsibly.

• Building Credit: Using a credit card and paying your bills on time is a great way to establish good credit. This will come in handy when you need to rent an apartment, buy a car, or even get a job.
• Dangers of Overspending: Credit cards can make it easy to spend more than you can afford.
• Managing Interest Rates: Pay attention to your interest rate! The higher the rate, the more you’ll pay in interest charges.
• Avoiding Late Fees: Pay your bills on time, every time! Late fees can add up quickly and negatively impact your credit score.

Navigating the Financial Aid Office: Your Partner in Funding Your Education

The financial aid office is your go-to resource for all things related to financial aid. These folks are there to help!

• Services They Offer:
  • Applying for financial aid: They can guide you through the process of completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • Managing your financial aid: They can help you understand your award letter and answer any questions you have about your aid package.
  • Appealing financial aid decisions: If you’ve experienced a change in your financial situation, they can help you file an appeal.
• Tips for Applying:
  • Meet all deadlines.
  • Provide accurate information.
  • Ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.

Unlocking Scholarships Through Websites: Free Money Awaits!

Who doesn’t love free money? Scholarships are a great way to reduce your reliance on student loans.

• Finding Scholarships:
  • Start your search early.
  • Use reputable scholarship websites:
    • Fastweb
    • Scholarships.com
  • Check with your university and local organizations.
• Writing Compelling Essays:
  • Follow the instructions carefully.
  • Showcase your personality and achievements.
  • Proofread, proofread, proofread!

Excelling Academically: Resources and Strategies

So, you’ve made it to university! Congrats! But let’s face it, adulting, especially the academic side, can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. That’s why we’re diving deep into how to ace your studies, armed with all the awesome resources your university offers. Think of this section as your academic survival kit.

Conquering Required Reading Lists

Those reading lists can look like novels themselves, right? Don’t panic! First, prioritize. Skim the syllabus – seriously, get cozy with it – to figure out which readings are absolutely essential. Second, adopt active reading techniques.

• Highlighting: Don’t just turn your textbook into a rainbow, though. Focus on key ideas, arguments, and evidence.
• Note-Taking: Jot down summaries, questions, and connections to other material. Your future self will thank you during exam season.
• Summarizing: After each section, try to condense the main points into a sentence or two. If you can’t, go back and reread!
• Time Management: The key to reading is definitely time management and breaking down readings into manageable chunks.

Harnessing the University Website

Your university website? It’s not just a place to check the cafeteria menu (though that’s important too!). It’s your digital command center. Hunt down these key areas:

• Academic Calendars: Mark those deadlines, drop dates, and holidays!
• Policies: Understand the rules of the game to avoid unnecessary stress.
• Resources: Discover tutoring services, writing centers, and other academic support.
• Online Learning Platforms: Learn how to navigate Canvas, Blackboard, or whatever platform your university uses. This is where you’ll find assignments, grades, and announcements.
• Student Portals: This is where you can register for classes, pay your tuition, and access your student records.

Working with Academic Advisors

Think of your academic advisor as your personal sherpa, guiding you through the mountain of degree requirements. They’re not just there to approve your course selections; they can also help you:

• Schedule Appointments: Don’t wait until you’re completely lost. Schedule regular check-ins to stay on track.
• Prepare for Meetings: Come with questions! Have a rough idea of your academic goals and any concerns you have.
• Develop a Personalized Academic Plan: Work with your advisor to create a roadmap for your degree, taking into account your interests, strengths, and career aspirations.

Understanding Placement Tests

Placement tests can be a little nerve-wracking, but they’re designed to help you succeed. They’re not pass-or-fail exams; they simply assess your current skills to place you in the appropriate courses.

• Prepare for Placement Tests: Brush up on key concepts in math, reading, and writing. Many universities offer practice tests or review materials.
• Implications of Test Results: Don’t be discouraged if you’re placed in a lower-level course. It simply means you have an opportunity to build a stronger foundation.
• Address Any Deficiencies: If you need to improve your skills, take advantage of tutoring services, workshops, or online resources.

Housing and Accommodation: Making it Home

Okay, so you’ve made it to university – congrats! Now, where are you going to live? Let’s be real, your dorm room or university-provided accommodation is going to be your basecamp for the next year (or more!). It’s super important to get this right. Let’s dive into how to make your housing situation less “meh” and more “yeah!”.

Dorm Room Life: What to Expect

First things first, let’s talk dorm life. Imagine a space – usually not huge – that you’ll be sharing with another human (maybe even two!). You’ll likely have a bed, desk, and closet. Think IKEA-chic on a budget.

• Typical Dorm Room Environment and Amenities: Most dorms come with the basics: a bed (usually a twin XL), a desk, a chair, and some closet or drawer space. Depending on your university, you might get lucky with air conditioning or a mini-fridge.

• Practical Tips for Making the Most of Dorm Life:

  • Decorating: Posters, tapestries, photos, and string lights can seriously personalize your space. Just check the dorm rules about what’s allowed (sticky tack is your friend!).
  • Organizing: Space is a premium, so get creative with storage! Under-the-bed storage bins, over-the-door organizers, and stackable shelves are lifesavers.
  • Socializing: Keep your door open (when you’re comfortable) to signal you’re open to meeting people. Common rooms are great for making friends.

• Common Challenges:

  • Noise: Invest in earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. Trust us.
  • Privacy: Hang a curtain around your bed or use a room divider to create a little personal space.
  • Sharing Space: Communicate with your roommate about schedules, habits, and expectations to avoid misunderstandings.

Building Bridges with Roommates

Speaking of roommates, let’s talk about how to not become mortal enemies. Communication is Key!
* Strategies for Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution:

*   ***Honest Conversation:*** Talk openly with your roommate(s) about your needs, expectations, and concerns.
*   ***Active Listening:*** Truly listen to what your roommate(s) are saying without interrupting or judging.
*   ***Compromise:*** Be willing to meet your roommate(s) halfway on any disagreements.
*   ***Fair Solutions:*** Collaboratively find solutions to problems that work for everyone.

• Importance of Setting Expectations and Boundaries:

  • Discuss Shared Spaces: How will you divide the room? Who cleans what? What is fair for each person?
  • Address Schedules: Are you an early bird or a night owl? How can you respect each other’s sleep schedules?
  • Clarify Guest Policies: How often can you have guests? How long can they stay? Will you give each other notice?
  • Define Personal Boundaries: Which items can you borrow? What level of privacy do you expect?
  • Determine Quiet Hours: When will you observe quiet hours to ensure studying and sleep aren’t disrupted?
  • Sharing is Caring: Discuss the sharing of food, supplies, and other resources

• Suggest Activities for Building Rapport:

  • Movie Nights: Watch films and eat pizza in the dorm room
  • Study Buddies: Study together and learn from each other
  • Game Nights: Play board games, card games, or video games
  • Explore Campus: Discover new places together
  • Attend Events: Join clubs, attend sports games, or go to parties together

Resident Advisors (RAs): Your Support System

Enter the unsung heroes of dorm life: Resident Advisors (RAs). Think of them as your big sibling on campus.
* The Role of RAs: RAs are upperclassmen (or women) who live in the dorms to provide support, guidance, and resources to residents. They’re trained to handle a variety of situations, from roommate conflicts to homesickness.
* Reach out to RAs: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your RA if you’re struggling with anything. They can offer advice, connect you with campus resources, or just lend a listening ear.
* Examples of When to Contact:

*   ***Roommate Conflicts:*** If you can't resolve issues with your roommate on your own, your RA can help mediate.
*   ***Feeling Homesick or Overwhelmed:*** RAs can offer emotional support and connect you with counseling services if needed.
*   ***Questions about University Policies:*** RAs are knowledgeable about campus rules and regulations.
*   ***Safety Concerns:*** If you witness suspicious activity or have concerns about your safety, report it to your RA.

Understanding University Housing Policies

Last but not least, know the rules! Each university has its own housing policies, and it’s important to be aware of them.

• Key Housing Policies:

  • Guest Policies: How many guests are you allowed to have at a time? Are overnight guests allowed?
  • Quiet Hours: When are you expected to keep the noise down?
  • Safety Regulations: What are the rules about smoking, alcohol, and fire safety?

• Consequences: Violating housing policies can result in warnings, fines, or even eviction from the dorms.

• Reporting Issues: If you have concerns about safety, maintenance, or other issues in your dorm, report them to the housing authorities. They’re there to help.

So, there you have it! Navigating university housing doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By understanding your dorm environment, building positive relationships with your roommates, utilizing your RAs, and following housing policies, you can create a comfortable and enjoyable living experience! Good luck!

Health and Well-being: Prioritizing Self-Care

University life is an incredible journey, but let’s be real—it can also be a whirlwind. Amidst the late-night study sessions and newfound independence, it’s easy to let your health and well-being take a backseat. But trust me, prioritizing self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for surviving and thriving! Let’s dive into how you can stay healthy, happy, and balanced.

Securing Health Insurance

Navigating health insurance can feel like deciphering ancient hieroglyphics, but fear not! You’ve got options:

• University-Sponsored Plans: These are often convenient and designed specifically for students. Check what’s covered—do they include mental health services or that pesky allergy medication you need?
• Private Insurance: If you’re already covered under your family’s plan, great! Just make sure it’s valid in your university’s location.
• Choosing the Right Plan: Consider your needs. Are you active and need sports coverage? Do you have pre-existing conditions? Read the fine print—understanding your coverage is key to avoiding surprise bills.

Pro-Tip: Don’t wait until you’re sick to figure this out! Get your insurance sorted ASAP.

Accessing Student Health Services

Your university’s student health center is a treasure trove of services. Seriously, it’s like having a superhero dedicated to keeping you healthy!

• Services Offered: Medical care, counseling, vaccinations—they’ve got it all. Some even offer specialized services like nutrition counseling or stress management workshops.
• Scheduling Appointments: Learn how to book an appointment before you need it. Most centers have online portals or phone lines. Save the number in your phone—you’ll thank me later.
• Preventative Care: Don’t wait until you’re feeling under the weather. Routine check-ups and vaccinations can save you from bigger problems down the road.

Managing Immunization Records

Let’s talk about something that sounds boring but is actually super important: immunization records.

• Why They Matter: Universities need to ensure everyone’s protected against contagious diseases. It’s not just about you; it’s about the whole community.
• Submitting and Updating: Find out how to submit your records. Some universities have online portals, while others require physical copies. Keep a copy for yourself, too!
• Consequences: No joke, not complying can lead to being barred from classes or campus facilities. Get this sorted early to avoid unnecessary stress.

Prescriptions and Healthcare Basics

Prescriptions can be a bit of a puzzle, but here’s how to crack the code:

• Filling Prescriptions: Locate pharmacies near your campus. Bonus points if they offer student discounts!
• Transferring Prescriptions: Moving from out of state? Transfer your prescriptions to a local pharmacy. Your doctor can usually help with this.
• Understanding Labels: Read the label carefully! Dosage, timing, potential side effects—it’s all there. If anything is unclear, ask the pharmacist. They’re a wealth of knowledge!

Consulting Doctors on Campus

• Consulting with doctors on campus University health services provide convenient access to medical professionals who understand the unique health challenges students face. On-campus doctors can offer routine checkups, diagnose and treat illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and provide referrals to specialists if needed.

• Finding specialized care For specialized medical needs, university health services can help students find appropriate specialists in the local area. Referrals to dermatologists, orthopedists, gynecologists, and other specialists ensure students receive comprehensive healthcare. These referrals often come with the added benefit of being vetted by the university, providing students with trusted healthcare options.

6. Technology and Communication: Staying Connected

University life is more digital than ever, right? Think about it: online assignments, virtual study groups, and even some professors rocking the digital classroom. To conquer it all, you’ve gotta be tech-savvy. Let’s dive into how to leverage technology for ultimate success and stay plugged into the university buzz.

Laptops: Your Academic Powerhouse

Your laptop will be your BFF (Best Friend Forever) through university, so choosing the right one is key.

• Choosing Wisely: Don’t just grab the flashiest one! Consider your major. Art students might need a powerhouse with killer graphics, while English majors might prefer a lightweight machine for marathon library sessions. Battery life is also crucial – you don’t want to be tethered to an outlet all day.
• Maintaining Performance and Security: Think of your laptop like a car – it needs maintenance! Keep your operating system updated, install a reliable antivirus program (seriously, do it!), and back up your files regularly. Trust me, losing that 20-page paper the night before it’s due is not a vibe.
• Essential Software and Accessories: A word processor is a given (Microsoft Office or Google Docs are popular choices). A good mouse can save your wrist. A laptop lock can save your sanity. And noise-canceling headphones? Life-savers in the library.

Software Essentials for Students

Okay, let’s kit you out with the digital tools of the trade.

• Productivity Powerhouses: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) are non-negotiable. Learn the shortcuts – they’ll save you hours!
• Academic Tools: Citation managers like Zotero or Mendeley will be your best friends when writing research papers. Trust me on this one. Also, your university probably offers access to plagiarism checkers (like Turnitin) – use them before submitting assignments to avoid any accidental academic oopsies.
• Free (or Discounted!) Goodies: Your university might offer free or discounted software to students. Check the IT department website. You could score everything from Adobe Creative Cloud to specialized engineering software.

Leveraging the University IT Department

Think of the IT department as your campus tech superheroes. They’re here to save the day (and your failing laptop).

• Their Role: They handle everything from Wi-Fi troubleshooting to software installations and account issues.
• Troubleshooting: Can’t connect to the Wi-Fi? Printer refusing to cooperate? IT is your first stop.
• Accessing Resources: Most universities have a help desk (in-person or online) and tons of online tutorials. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – that’s what they’re there for.

Managing Your Student Email Account

Your student email is the official communication channel. It’s not just for spam – important announcements, assignment updates, and even internship opportunities will land in your inbox.

• Check it Regularly: Like, daily. Missing an email from your professor could mean missing a crucial deadline.
• Professionalism is Key: When emailing professors or staff, use proper grammar and a polite tone. “Hey prof, where’s the assignment?” isn’t going to cut it.
• Inbox Management: Create folders to organize your emails. Use filters to automatically sort messages. And for the love of all that is holy, delete the junk mail regularly! You don’t want to miss that scholarship opportunity because it’s buried under a pile of Nigerian prince scams.

Campus and Community Involvement: Getting Engaged

So, you’ve officially landed on campus – congrats! Now what? Classes are important, sure, but trust me, your university experience will be ten times richer if you dive headfirst into campus and community life. Think of it as leveling up your university game from “student” to “super student”! Let’s get you engaged!

Student Activities Fairs: Your Gateway to Clubs

Imagine a massive marketplace of awesome… that’s basically a student activities fair. It’s where all the clubs and organizations set up shop, trying to lure you in with freebies, enthusiasm, and promises of fun. Attend these fairs because it’s like speed-dating for hobbies!

Tips for Networking and Meeting New People:

• Don’t be shy! Walk up to tables that pique your interest.
• Ask questions: What does the club do? How often do they meet? What are their upcoming events?
• Grab free stuff. (Duh!)
• Most importantly, sign up for their email lists! That way, you’ll stay in the loop.

Why join a club? You’ll meet people who share your interests (instant friend group!), gain new skills, boost your resume, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime. Trust me; future you will thank you!

Exploring Interest Groups

Alright, so maybe the Activities Fair was a little overwhelming. No sweat! Interest groups are a more chill way to connect with people who love the same stuff you do. Whether you’re into coding, creative writing, hiking, or competitive cheese sculpting, there’s probably a group for you.

How to Find and Join Interest Groups:

• Check the university website’s club directory – most universities have this listed.
• Ask around in your classes or dorm.
• Keep an eye out for flyers and posters around campus.

Benefits of Participating in Group Activities and Events:

• Seriously, you’ll meet like-minded people and bond with them.
• Learn new things and grow your existing skills.
• Have a built-in support system!

Libraries: Your Research Hub

I know, I know, “library” sounds boring. But the university library is a treasure trove of resources! It’s not just books (though they have plenty of those!). Think of it as a research wonderland!

Key Library Resources:

• Books, e-books, and journals: Basically, all the knowledge you could ever want.
• Online databases: Goldmines for research papers.
• Quiet study spaces: Perfect for focusing.
• Librarians: Friendly experts who can help you find anything!

Pro Tip: Befriend a librarian. They know everything.

Student Unions: Social Central

The student union is the heart of campus life. It’s where students come to relax, study, grab a bite, and hang out.

Amenities and Resources Available:

• Food courts: Fuel up for those long study sessions!
• Lounges: Chill spaces for relaxing or socializing.
• Game rooms: Blow off steam with a game of pool or ping pong.
• Event spaces: Concerts, movie nights, and more!

It’s the perfect place to strike up a conversation with someone new or bump into old friends. So ditch the dorm room and head to the union!

Career Services: Planning Your Future

Okay, let’s get real for a sec. University isn’t just about having fun; it’s also about setting yourself up for a successful future. That’s where the Career Services Center comes in!

Services Offered:

• Career counseling: Figure out what you want to do with your life.
• Resume and cover letter workshops: Make yourself shine on paper.
• Interview preparation: Nail that job interview.
• Job and internship postings: Find your dream opportunity.

Start Career Planning Early! Even if you have no idea what you want to do, talking to a career counselor can help you explore your options and develop a plan. Plus, a polished resume and killer interview skills will give you a major edge when you start applying for jobs.

Counseling Centers: Mental Health Support

University can be tough. Stress, anxiety, homesickness – it’s all part of the experience. But you don’t have to go through it alone!

Services Offered:

• Individual counseling: Talk to a therapist about your concerns.
• Group therapy: Connect with other students who are going through similar experiences.
• Workshops and support groups: Learn coping skills and strategies for managing stress.

Prioritize your mental health! It’s okay to ask for help. The university’s counseling center is there to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re struggling.

Campus Resources and Opportunities: Making the Most of University Life

University life is about more than just attending classes and cramming for exams. It’s an entire ecosystem brimming with opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. To truly make the most of your university experience, you need to know where to look and how to tap into the wealth of resources available. Let’s unearth some of these hidden gems together!

Office Hours: Connect with Professors

Ever feel lost in a lecture or puzzled by an assignment? Don’t suffer in silence! Your professors are not just lecturers; they’re mentors and guides. Attending office hours is your golden ticket to personalized help. Come prepared with specific questions, show genuine interest in the subject, and watch your understanding soar. It’s also a great way to build a relationship that can benefit you down the line with letters of recommendation or career advice. Think of it as a VIP pass to academic success!

Research Opportunities: Get Involved in Discovery

Want to take your learning to the next level? Dive into the world of research! Universities are hubs of innovation, and you can be a part of it. Look for research opportunities in your field of study – it could be anything from assisting with experiments in a lab to analyzing data for a professor’s project. Not only will you gain valuable hands-on experience, but you’ll also boost your resume and set yourself apart from the crowd. Plus, contributing to new knowledge is just plain cool!

Community Service Projects: Give Back

University isn’t just about personal gain; it’s also about contributing to the greater good. Get involved in community service projects and make a difference! Whether it’s volunteering at a local soup kitchen, cleaning up a park, or mentoring underprivileged youth, there are countless ways to give back. Not only will you feel good about yourself, but you’ll also develop valuable skills, meet like-minded people, and broaden your perspective on the world.

Orientation Programs: Your Campus Welcome

Think of orientation as your official campus welcome party! These programs are designed to help you acclimate to university life, navigate the campus, and meet fellow students. Don’t skip out on orientation – it’s your chance to get all your questions answered, sign up for clubs, and maybe even snag some free swag!

Welcome Week Activities: Explore and Connect

The party continues with Welcome Week! This is your opportunity to explore clubs and organizations, get to know campus better, and forge lasting friendships. Attend events that pique your interest, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace the excitement of starting a new chapter.

Campus Tours: Get to Know Your Surroundings

Feeling lost on campus? Take a tour! Campus tours are a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the layout of the university, learn about the different facilities and resources, and discover hidden gems you might otherwise miss. Plus, you’ll get some exercise!

University Directory: Find Your Contacts

Need to reach out to a professor, staff member, or department? The university directory is your go-to resource for finding contact information. Don’t be afraid to reach out for assistance – everyone at the university is there to support your success.

Academic Departments: Your Subject Experts

Your academic department is more than just a place to register for classes. It’s a hub of resources and expertise in your field of study. Visit your department’s website or office to find information on research opportunities, scholarships, advising, and more. Your professors and departmental staff are valuable resources – don’t hesitate to connect with them!

So, there you have it! A few ideas to make the most of your summer before college. Whether you decide to chill out, work hard, or explore new things, remember to enjoy this unique time in your life. Get ready for an amazing college experience, and have a fantastic summer!