20 Things No One Tells You About Freshman Year At Syracuse University
1. No air conditioning.
We may be one of the snowiest cities in America, but it doesn’t always feel like it when there’s 100% humidity and its 85 degrees for the first month and a half. Bring a fan or maybe two, or three. Trust me
2. Bring warm clothes.
Yeah it may be sweltering for two months, but the rest of the year expect wind, snow, and freezing temperatures. Get yourself a nice winter jacket and some quality snow boots. Your toes will thank you later.
3. Make a friend or two with upperclassmen.
They’ve got some experience on you so when you need help with studying or finding a party on Saturday nights, shoot them a text and ask them what’s up, they’re usually more than willing to help.
4. Try out all the dining halls/cafes.
Theres all kinds of food at different places on campus, take the time to try them all out. The smoothie shop in Newhouse or the Haagen Dazs bar in Kimmel and the cafe at Bird. They all have lots to offer, find your favorite.
5. Transitioning is hard.
Leaving home for the first time is super exciting but also really scary! Its okay to feel weird about sleeping in completely new place. Talk to your friends from home, they’re going through the same thing and can support you when you’re struggling.
6. Use resources.
College level classes too hard? Need a tutor? No problem, Syracuse has peer mentoring programs that can help with studying tips and homework help.
7. Take every moment as it comes.
There are going to be good days and bad days. One week you might have 2 essays, an exam and a lab due, sounds scary I know, but just try to take one thing at a time. Learning how to manage time and workload is key to being successful.
8. You’re gonna have to learn how to adult.
Yes, you are going to have to call health services when you’re throwing up and your head feels like it’s going to explode. Your parents can’t do everything for you anymore, it might be scary at first but that’s the whole point of growing up.
9. Don’t stress too much.
Freshman year will not be the same as senior year, if you’re not finding your bffs right away it’s 100% okay, you have four years to meet so many people
10. It’s okay to call your mom crying.
Adjusting is weird, and everyone has a moment..or two where you break down and regret all your life decisions. Mom is only a phone call away, you might not be able to get one of those famous everything-will-be-okay hugs, but she will offer some advice and words of encouragement that you need to hear.
11. Join a club!
Within the first month of classes starting there’s the involvement fair, check it out, even if you have no intention of joining a club, you’d be surprised by what you may find.
12. Be true to yourself.
College is all about finding yourself, but don’t pretend to be someone you know you’re not, that is only going to make things harder for you.
13. Cleaning.
You have to do laundry, clean your room, and take out your trash. Don’t be gross.
14. Explore campus and find places to study.
Maybe it’s a secret table in the corner of Carnegie or the big leather chairs in HG Laboratory find some places where you feel most focused and motivated to stick your nose in a textbook.
15. Work out once in awhile.
Working out actually is proven to bring up mood and give you energy, so even though you’re tired from binge watching Greys and eating microwavable popcorn, throw on some sneakers and get your butt to a treadmill.
16. Go to class.
You’re paying a lot of money to go here, make it worthwhile, you might be surprised by who you meet and what you learn
17. Go to games!
Ranked with having the most school spirit, there’s a reason! Hit up a tailgate at Castle Court or East Adams and head over to the dome for some quality college athletics. (Beat Duke)
18. Views.
The Penthouse in Lawrenson has the most amazing view of the valley you could ever imagine. Although it’s all the way out on the west side of campus it’s worth the trip. Grab some hot cocoa and watch the snowfall as you lounge in the big leather couches.
19. Ask for help.
Office hours, TA’s and advisors are there to help you learn and grow as students, it’s literally their job. If you’re struggling dont hesitate to use the resources that the university has, you’d be surprised at how they may help you.
20. Enjoy!
You only have one freshman year so make the most of it. Get lost, regret things, meet new people, learn about your school and find yourself.
