Entering adulthood, leaving your home behind, and advancing your academic and professional career is certainly daunting and challenging. The following years at university have the potential to be the best of your life, and it takes immense courage and resilience to get over the initial obstacles. Becoming involved in your university’s campus life can be overwhelming at first, but the benefits outweigh the costs. It is essential that you maintain a strong work-life balance, advance your academic career, and unlock a supportive and encouraging environment. Here are five ways to get involved in your newfound community, either physically or virtually, as a freshman.
Written by Tavie Johnson
Begin With Orientation
First of all, make sure to attend virtual events immediately after your acceptance to begin integrating yourself into your institution’s community. Taking virtual tours, attending information sessions, and chatting with current students are easy ways to help you become familiar with your university of choice. When you arrive on campus for the first time, attend freshman orientation to meet new people, locate necessary facilities, and discover exciting opportunities. This introduction of your potential resources will give you a head start in becoming an engaged and experienced student.
Attend Events
There are countless virtual and in-person events hosted by many institutions over the course of the year. Seek out the ones that interest you while providing novel skills and knowledge. This is an easy way to meet new people, make valuable memories and improve your academic performance. Sports games, community outreach events, educational seminars, discussions on arts and culture, social justice initiatives, and many other opportunities are at your fingertips - literally! Keep up to date by checking your school’s website and social media platforms, or signing up for email newsletters. You can also ask students and faculty to see how they’re spending their leisure time on campus.
Join Sports and Clubs
You don’t have to be a prospective professional athlete or debate team champion to get involved with your university. If you want to expand your horizons beyond your field of study, get involved in any sports, clubs, or collectives that interest you. From intramural leagues and multicultural associations to student government and literature circles--there’s something for everyone. Searching online and filling out applications is the first step you can take to turn your interests into initiatives.
Find a Study Group
What better way to make friends and strengthen your study habits and academic performance than to find a group of like-minded individuals to study with? Reviewing class material in preparation for tests and exams can be especially helpful with a support network of motivating scholars. Challenging coursework can often be eased by referring to the knowledge and experiences of a variety of individuals, and by explaining difficult concepts to others to better understand them yourself. You will be much more productive, efficient, and successful by collaborating with your classmates. Ask around to see if there’s an existing group you can join, or grab some friends and start your own!
Work, Research, and Gain Volunteer Experience
Finding a part-time job and gaining research experience, either during the semester or holiday breaks, can set you up for success after your undergraduate degree. Volunteering for charitable causes is another great way to show leadership and commitment. Not only do these opportunities look excellent on resumes and graduate school applications, but they are also great for expanding your personal and professional networks. Check out bulletin boards or online postings for opportunities, and talk to graduate students or faculty to see if they will let you obtain this experience under their guidance.
Conclusion
Finally, it’s important to not lose sight of the big picture. Your university experience will undoubtedly be difficult and tiring sometimes, but don’t hide away in your room cramming for a test every night. Get out on campus and experience the countless invaluable opportunities your university has to offer, whether you’re in-person or in front of a screen. Build connections, make memories, and enjoy your time while you’re young!
Works Cited
Ontario Tech University. (2016, July 15). 5 Reasons to Get Involved at University. www.blog.ontariotechu.ca/reasons-to-get-involved-at-university
Florida National University. (2019, June 27). 6 Ways to Meet People and Get Involved in Your University Community. www.fnu.edu/6-ways-meet-people-involved-university-community/
Times Higher Education. (2019, June 13). Eight Ways to Make the Most Out Of Your Time at University. www.timeshighereducation.com/student/advice/eight-ways-make-most-out-your-time-university
Urbanest. (2017, October 2nd). How to Get Involved with University Life While Boosting Your Studies www.uk.urbanest.com/journal/how-can-students-get-involved-in-university-life-to-boost-their-studies/
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