20 Things No One Tells You About Freshman Year At The University of Iowa
Freshman year can be either nerve-wracking or exciting. You could have been the class president or the valedictorian or the star athlete or just a normal student that hangs around. However, freshman year of college is a brand new start for you. No one focuses on where you have been, what you have done, or what role you have acted. IT’S JUST THE PAST!! Now, you have so much opportunity around you and so many new adventures to take. Beginning college can be intimidating, so, here are some things to help you out during your freshman year at University of Iowa!
1. GO TO ORIENTATION
You will meet new people and participate in ice breakers to get yourself more familiar with the campus. If you have any question regarding academic, social, and personal life you can definitely ask one of the ONIOWA leaders or upperclassmen.
2. BE OUTGOING
It’s a new journey in life, therefore be open to every opportunity.
3. GO TO CLASS
College isn’t like high school. Not attending lecture won’t get you in trouble. However, high school can be free and college is much more expensive. Therefore, go to lecture and make your money worth.
4. DON’T BUY NEW BOOKS
There are many sites, Facebook group, second-hand store are selling textbooks for half or even less than half of the original price.
5. MEET ACADEMIC ADVISOR
Meeting with your academic advisor can help you stay on track and plan out a perfect schedule.
6. GO TO OFFICE HOURS
If you are seeking extra help in difficult academic areas… go to office hour! Your professor is there to help you and make you successful in academic.
7. GO TO FREE ACADEMIC RESOURCES
There are many free and available resources on campus. For example, if you need help in writing go to the writing center. If you need help with a presentation goes to the speaking center. If you need help with chemistry go to SI.
8. JOIN CLUBS AND ORGANIZATION
Joining clubs and organization are great ways to get involved and meet new people.
9. NO CAR IS GOOD
Not having a car in freshman year is fine. Parking is way too expensive near campus. The hawklot is even more expensive. There are buses to every location on/ off campus.
10. PARTY BUT NOT TOO HARD
Going to parties are great, But not too much where you forget your academic work and fail a class or… lose scholarships.
11. SEEK BALANCE
Always seek balance in college. Going out to have fun is great. But make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating enough food, and having time for your families and friends.
12. TAKE EVERY OPPORTUNITY
Don’t stop trying when you’ve heard the upperclassman or people around criticize your skill or complication to be involved. You don’t get everything in life, but you can try.
13. BECOME A VOLUNTEER
Becoming a volunteer since freshman year in the hospital can boost your medical school application. Becoming a volunteer in business companies can your MBA application. Etc…
14. STAY HEALTHY
No one wants the freshman 15, but without the proper eating time and portion, this weight can gain instantly. Therefore, watch out!
15. USE NIGHT RIDE
If you are out alone at night and Uber is too expensive or not available… Use NIGHTRIDE is free and totally safe.
16. DON’T GET A GOLD MEAL PLAN
Meal plans are efficient. But if you know that you will be eating out a lot or don’t have time to go to the cafeteria. Don’t purchase it because is way too expensive and if you don’t use it is just a waste of money.
17. BUY FOOTBALL GAME PACKAGE
If you are someone that loves to go to the games then buy a package! Iowans are hyped about football games and buying single game tickets are very expensive. You can also make money by buying them and reselling them…
18. TAKE CARE OF STUDENT DISCOUNT
You can get a student discount at a lot of stores… So take advantage because college is expensive and save so money.
19. LUNCH SPECIAL HOURS/SPECIALS
Don’t be afraid of trying new food and drink. Lunch specials and other specials are half of its original price. Take advantage!
20. BE POSITIVE
College is full of surprises. Always have a bright attitude and be ready for wherever life takes you.
