Ten Tips for Incoming Freshmen

 1. Befriend upperclassmen.

As you start this new stage of your life, it’s easy to feel like a fish out of water. So many new tasks and responsibilities will be given to you, and you may not know where to start. Befriending an upperclassman or two (like your mentors and envoys) can be one of the best resources for this. We’ve already gone ahead of you and experienced these same responsibilities, asked the same questions, etc. So don’t be afraid to talk to an upperclassman for advice on these things, we’re more than happy to help!

 

2. Be preventative in handling stress.

The best way to handle stress is to try and prevent it from happening in the first place, so you don’t ever find yourself overwhelmed. While these preventative measures may look different for everyone, some basics to follow include blocking out time for proper meals and sleep, practicing time management, and self-care. Even planning out which days you're going to complete your assignments for the week can give you a sense of control over a hectic schedule.

3. Take breaks!

Taking breaks during the day to get away from studying or when you are not in class is very important. Whether you go on a walk, work out, or get lunch with a friend this will help you from getting burnt out quickly. Though it may be overwhelming at first and you may feel very busy, it is necessary to schedule time for yourself. It not only helps relieve stress but also makes you more productive.

 

4. Find your study spots.

Find an optimal place to study that works for you. There are a ton of places on campus that offer different atmospheres no matter your study style. Getting out of your dorm is also a great way to focus and have a change of scenery. Even within every dorm building, there are rooms you can go to.

5. Join a few clubs!

This is a great way to find people with the same interests as you. There are so many clubs at Penn State, including some fun ones as well. This is also a great way to take a break from your engineering classes. Whether you need a friend to play your favorite sport with, sing, dance, or study with, this is a great way to meet so many new people.

6. Refresh on your math skills!

This one is very specific to those taking Math140 and Math141. Remember your Algebra skills from high school. Don’t stress about this but it might be helpful to look up your exponential rules before coming into the course. This will be very beneficial for you.

7. Give your location to your roommate or someone you trust on campus.

If you are going out somewhere it's always good to have someone else know where you are going. Being on your own for the first time can be scary and if something happens at least someone can help you out. Noonlight is a great app to download and add your friends for when you feel unsafe!

8. Don’t panic if you are not doing well in a class.

College is way different from your classes in high school. Get help, talk to upperclassmen if you want but definitely talk to an advisor. There are plenty of people out there who have struggled in these same classes you are taking now. Plenty of successful engineers have failed classes before, but they still became engineers in the end.

9. Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions or reach out!

If you are feeling stressed about something, don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice! Although it can be intimidating to reach out to faculty or even students that are older than you, the help and knowledge you can receive from reaching out can make a huge difference. For example, having questions about attending your first career fair, having your first interview, or even joining a new club on campus is completely normal and you should ask them! You’ll be surprised about what opportunities will come your way or what connections you’ll make.

 

10. Go to office hours.

Going to office hours may seem like the last thing you want to do after attending classes and studying, but if you need help they are a great resource. The professors and TA’s holding office hours will be happy to see you and answer any questions you have about the class, homework problems, or even upcoming exams. If you have questions about homework problems, make sure you try the problem before you attend and think about what specific difficulties you are having with it. Overall, going to office hours is a great opportunity to make new friends, build relationships with professors and TA’s, and know the course material better.