High Point University

Five tips for incoming freshmen

The Slane Student Center, where new students will likely spend a great deal of time for its varied dining options gymnasium. Photo by HPU.edu

By Ally Ortolani

Opinion Editor

Freshmen year is a new beginning. Having an abundance of new possibilities can, for some, be quite intimidating. The next four years of your life are going to be some of the most influential years of your life. Enjoy it while you can because before you know it, you will be out in the real world of adulthood. With that being said, here are several tips that I wish I knew back when I was embarking on this new journey.

1. Do not be afraid to talk to your classmates

I wish I told myself this during my freshman year. Almost everyone is nervous to start this new journey of college. The person sitting next to you in English could be your best friend. Speak up.

2. Be organized, on time and make connections

I cannot stress how important it is to always be organized with your studies. I owe much of my academic success by prioritizing the importance of always turning in assignments before the assignment was due. It is so easy to fall behind and procrastinate. Falling into the trap of pushing off assignments can lead to an inevitable cycle of stress and anxiety. Never hesitate to speak to your professors about your concerns and worries; they are here to help you. Establishing connections with your professors can help ease any problems that should arise during the school year.

3. Call your parents

No matter how busy you are with homework, friends, or social events, always call your parents. I like to call at least once a week, with the occasional texting in between. Your parents want to hear about all the new friends you are making, how hard your classes are, how the food is, and all the other random occurrences throughout your day. Set aside an hour of your time on your easiest day to catch up. Trust me, it will mean the world to them.

4. Join Greek Life

Although I waited to rush as a sophomore, I do wish I rushed sooner. Before rushing, I almost transferred after my freshman year; however, I decided to give sophomore year a chance. Upon rushing and becoming a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha, I not only found the most amazing group of girls, but also found a second home. Joining Greek Life allowed me to find the sense of belonging and sisterhood that I was missing in my life after entering college. Even if you are hesitant about joining Greek Life, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a chance because it can change your life in the most extraordinary way. I have been offered a chance to serve as one of the Social Chairs of my sorority, and I attended and represented Delta Gamma Chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha at the Emerging Leaders Academy this past summer in Indianapolis. Joining Greek Life is not about the social events or popularity; it is about finding the group of people with whom you can be your most authentic self. To find out more information on how to join Greek Life visit highpoint.edu/ greeklife.

5. Get involved on campus

At the beginning of each semester, there is a club and activities fair held for students to find out about the different organizations on campus. High Point University has nearly 100 clubs and organizations that include volunteering in the local community, taking part in the Student Government Association and playing intramural or club sports. With the abundance of options that High Point has, every student can find a way to make new connections.To find out more information on how you can get involved, be sure to check out HPU Connect.