Hello freshmen!
You now only have three weeks until you officially begin at IU! You may be feeling a wide range of emotions, nervous about meeting your roommate, finding your classes, navigating the buses, writing your first college essay and keeping up with homework. I've been there and remember the week before I left for IU as if it was yesterday.
If WeAreIU.com had been around my freshman year, I can only imagine how much more prepared I'd have been before moving to Bloomington.
As a result, I've created a list of pro-tips to get through your first year smoothly and efficiently.
- Eat chia seeds and almonds to help fight off the freshmen 15.
- But also go to all the Welcome Week events because...free food.
- You'll quickly learn that you'll forever have a hate-hate relationship with the Ballantine stairs. Seriously, they're the worst.
- Coffee isn't the only way to get caffeine - try green tea or lemon water. (Coffee is too expensive, anyway).
- Always pack an umbrella. Also, bring a few. Bloomington wind shows no mercy.
- You really do need to memorize the lyrics to "This Is Indiana." Trust me.
- The Student Involvement Fair will be your saving grace.
- Never do laundry on Sunday. Avoid it like the plague.
- Basketball is a way of life. Adopt it. Cherish it.
- The hot chocolate in Wright's food court will change your life.
- Start your essays early.
- You'll be either team Pizza X or team Mother Bears. I've yet to meet someone in Swiss territory.
- Have the courage to speak in discussion sections. Even if you don't enjoy it, it's in your best interest to speak in class. Participation points can easily be your friend and also your enemy.
I hope all, or at least a few, of these tips help you! Amidst your nervousness, don't forget to be excited, too. IU will soon be your home away from home.
Looking forward to welcoming you all to the family, freshmen!
--Gillian