Your time in college, people say, is one of the best times of your life. As adjusting to this new life in college can be difficult, here’s some advice on how to stay involved from an upperclassman.
Starting college can be a very nervous but exciting time. Filled with so many different opportunities for academics, clubs, and social connections. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed as you adapt to a new environment and lifestyle. The first semester is already coming to an end, so you’re most likely settled in with your friend group and just finishing your schedule for the spring. If you’re still searching for your perfect group of friends, that’s okay.
Freshman year is a great time to meet new people and form strong connections. It’s good to be open to conversation with your classmates as many of them are in the same boat, trying to make new friends. Getting involved in clubs around the campus is a great way to meet people with the same interests as you. Cortland offers so many different clubs for different interests like sport clubs, cultural groups, art and more. If you enjoy sports but don’t want it to be too competitive, try joining intramural teams. This is a good way to stay active without it being too competitive. This is an opportunity to learn something new while meeting new people.
Your social life is a big part of your college experience, but it’s important to balance between going out and your work responsibilities. Time management is one of the most important skills students will learn throughout their college experience. It helps balance your school work, job, and social activities. By getting better at managing your time, you can have success in your personal life and your work.
Joining a fraternity or sorority is another great way to get into college life. These social organizations offer social opportunities, connections, and involvement with campus life. It can be difficult to make friends in a new environment, Greek life gives you a group of people who can support you and make you feel more at home. A chance to help others and get involved in community service or charities and give back to your community. Greek life can give you the opportunity to connect with alumni and people in your field of work. Connections can help you with internships and job opportunities.
Greek life requires time investment. Make sure you can balance your work and other activities with joining greek life. Becoming a part of a fraternity or sorority can be expensive. Membership usually involves dues for events and housing, on top of all the personal things you need to buy. In the end, it’s important to be yourself and do what you think is best. Some students might feel pressured to fit in and participate in activities that they are uncomfortable with.
Creating goals throughout your semester whether it’s short term or long term, it can help you stay focused and motivated with the heavy workload students get. Goals can be as big or as little as you want, whether it’s for academic achievement or personal growth. Calendars, notebooks, or reminders on your phone are a great way to keep track of deadlines and plans you’re committed to. Being flooded with work is not rare. So it’s okay to say no to going to certain events or parties. Many students realize that they can’t always go out and have a good time. Learning to say no will help show you that school work is a priority.
Making memories, learning, and exploring are all part of the freshman year. you’ll have an amazing college experience by building friendships and participating in social events. This journey will help you grow and learn as a person and dont be scared to reach out to friends, professors, or family if you need help.