- Get overwhelmed by the size of the campus
Yes, Penn State is an exceptionally large campus. Yes, you may (or may not) get lost sometimes. However, I can guarantee that by your second semester, getting around campus will be the easiest part of your day.
- Freak out over Chem 110
There is a chance that you have already heard the horror stories of Chem 110. This is where you may learn the age-old lesson, “C’s get degrees.” Scary, right? Honestly, don’t get too worried. This is ONE class. Chem 110 is just a speed bump. You have to roll right over it, and then continue on and the road will be smooth. True story: my roommate dropped out of engineering because she didn’t like Chem 110. DO NOT DO THAT. You will be fine.
- Be afraid to knock on floormates’ doors
You might feel weird and annoying or whatever, but the only way to get to know people on your floor is to talk to them! You may not end up being best friends, or you might end up getting an apartment with them sophomore year (which is specifically what happened to me). After you’re all moved in, pictures hung and bed made, take a stroll down the hall and see who else is moved in. This way, they’ll already know your name before your RA forces you to play a name game in the hallway.
- Not have a fun fact ready to go at all times
I SWEAR. You will play approximately 525,600 ice breaker games in your first year at Penn State. A lot of these games will start with, “say your name, and a fun fact about yourself!” Think hard. Have you met anyone famous? Have you traveled anywhere cool? If so, remember that. It will be insanely handy.
- Wear your convocation shirt in public
Yes, it is a nice shirt. And props to Penn State for giving us them. However, don’t wear it in public. That is all.
- Spend all of your meal points at Au Bon Pain
ABP is a lovely establishment and incredibly convenient after enduring a lecture in Forum. However, meal points don’t always last forever, and ABP is a good place to throw them away. Food in the commons is way, way, way cheaper, and also not that bad. As for coffee recommendations, I personally have a huge love for Dunkin (I may or may not know some of the workers by name), and they do take LionCash.
- Study at the desk in your dorm
The desk in your dorm is good every once in awhile, yes. However, try something new! There are so many other places to study, and a change of scenery is always pleasant. My personal favorites include the fifth floor of Paterno library, anywhere in the Business Building, the lobby of Osmond, and Dunkin Donuts (I’m telling you, I’m obsessed).
- Forget to call your parents
They miss you! I am very guilty of forgetting to call freshmen year, so I had to step my game up sophomore year. Get into the habit of calling on the walk to your first class or on the walk home. It will make your parents very happy.
- Go home on the weekends
For real, just stay. Things can get tough during your first year, but the majority of your favorite freshmen memories will be made during the weekend! Even if you are not a partier, if you stay at school you have the chance to find a friend to watch Netflix endlessly with, and isn’t that all anyone really needs? You will see your family and your high school friends over the break, but *alert: this is cheesey* freshmen year is the time to meet new people and make lasting friendships.
- Sign up for a million clubs
Coffee Club, Netflix Club, Cheese Club, Knitting Club, Penn State literally has 1,107 clubs. Contrary to popular belief, joining every club does not guarantee you the World’s Greatest College Experience. I know everyone is shouting “GET INVOLVED!!!!!!” excitedly at you, but don’t take it too seriously. It is very important to get involved, but take it easy. Think about what you want to dedicate yourself to, and do it. It’s better to be committed to a small amount of clubs than halfway attending meetings for 15 clubs.
Becky Stem is a junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering and is a Mentor for WEPO'16!
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