Don’t just survive, thrive! Advice for college welcome week
College is a unique place where you will meet people from all walks of life, and alongside them, you will have the opportunity to learn and grow in community. Faculty and staff truly want you to succeed, and many structures are in place to help you thrive. But remember, this is not a one-way street! To succeed in college, you must be engaged in your education and connected to the community. Many colleges and universities host a fall welcome week schedule to prepare students for success in their first year. We asked current college students to provide some advice for college welcome week and getting outside of your comfort zone.
Go to events
One piece of advice that I would give to students is to go to events on campus because you are able to meet new people on campus who you may not run into any other time! It is a good chance to make new friends, have a good time, and also to make connections that could help you in the future!
Hailey, pre-physical therapy major
My best advice is to take advantage of community! College is one of those rare situations where you can be surrounded by a bunch of people and yet somehow feel lonely. But I promise, there are good people everywhere you look. So go to campus events! And talk to people you’ve never talked to before! You never know what friendships might come from it!
Madelyn, nutrition and dietetics major
Meet new people
Joining clubs, attending events, and making connections are my favorite ways to make the most of the college experience. It opens up opportunities, helps you meet new people and creates lasting memories!
Dylan, marketing major
It’s easy to feel like everyone else has already found their group of friends and you’re behind. But remember that not everyone has it all together, even if it looks that way on the surface. College is full of people who are also figuring things out and searching for their own communities. Be open to meeting new people, joining different clubs, or attending social events-even if it’s outside of your comfort zone. Over time, you’ll find people who share your interests, values, and goals. It may take a little while, but the friendships and connections that last will be the ones that happen naturally, not forced.
Gracie, social work major
Connect with classmates
I advise everyone to connect with classmates in your freshman seminar class! Building connections with classmates early on can be a great way to make new friends and study partners and learn new things about people and their backgrounds.
Macey, history major
Ask for help
At Bluffton University there are so many people who want you to succeed and excel. Personally, one of the most important resources we have on campus are the hall Resident Advisors. Whether you need help with schoolwork, your roommate, or even just life, they are always there to talk with open doors and no judgment.
Zachary, business administration and sports management major
My advice is to utilize professors. There is a stigma attached to asking for help, but don’t be shy to ask questions during office hours or via email. Professors are there to help you succeed and often want to see you succeed more than you want it yourself to. Take advantage of their knowledge and guidance. I have had amazing professors while attending Bluffton and it helped me become a better person in my major but also a better friend.
Lindsey, social work major
Turn your room into your new home
I love to decorate my room with cozy and warm colors! Not only do the colors make this dorm bright, but they also brighten up my mindset! I have lots of plants and even pictures of family and friends to help get my environment cozy and comfortable!
Ella, education major
Final advice for college welcome week
College is the time where you’re surrounded by people your age. You all are going through the same stuff. So, enjoy it! It flies by! By your senior year, you’ll be ready to go into the world, but you won’t want to leave! So try to be present in from the start and take advantage of each moment and opportunity!
Carter, communication and media major
At Bluffton University
At Bluffton University, community extends far beyond the classroom. With more than 60 student organization, 18 athletic teams, and dozens of ways to experience the arts and spiritual life, you will find your place.
Many colleges and universities host a fall welcome week schedule to prepare students for success. Current college students share some college welcome week advice to get you out of your comfort zone.
