ADVICE FOR FRESHMEN: Top ten tips for starting college

The Daily News

Note: The views expressed here are those of the guest writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Daily News or any of its Unified Student Media affiliates.

Kyle Pierce, the student Board of Trustees member and Chloe Anagnos, the vice president of the Student Government Association, share their advice for this year's freshmen.

10. Don’t Over Pack

Your closet is going to be tiny. If possible, bring clothing for the seasons and switch them out for extra space. 


9. Keep Your Door Open

Welcome Week is the best time to make new friends if you live in the residence halls. Keep your door open when you’re home so that you can chat with neighbors. 


8. Check Your Email 

Professors contact students mainly through email. Check yours regularly to make sure that you are up to date on assignments or class meeting times. 


7. Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help

This isn’t high school. If you’re not doing well in class, no one will call home. This freedom from having your parents off your back about grades might seem fine for a while. However, if you don’t take the initiative to ask for help, you will fall behind. If you have questions, email your professors or go to their office hours.


6. Call Home    

While we’re glad you left the “nest” to join ours, your parents will still miss you. There is no shame in calling your family once or twice a week, or even going home two or three weekends during the semester. 


5. Find a Support System

Surround yourself with a group of people who support and challenge you to do your best. By having a support system, you’ll never have to feel alone in the decisions you make while transitioning into a new chapter of your life. 


4. Dress for Success

If you want to be treated like an adult, you have to act like one. No one takes someone who wears their sweats to class very seriously. While we all have “off” days, don’t make a habit of not dressing decently for your classes.


3. Support Your Fellow Cardinals

Ball State is home to 18 Division I/IA Varsity sports teams. This fall, you will be able to watch as the football team fights to play in its second consecutive bowl game, and the women’s volleyball team goes for its ninth regular season MAC title. 


2. Get Involved

Studies show that there is a correlation between higher grades and involvement. Step outside your comfort zone and join a club. Ball State offers more than 300 student organizations. 


1. Go to Class

Most people fail college classes because they never show up. If you want to do well during your time here, go to every class. Take notes. Participate. Going to class helps you retain the material more easily. Remember why you’re here in the first place; to learn. 


Good luck, and have wonderful first year as a Cardinal.

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