10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Ball State Orientation
Orientation is intimidating for everyone. It’s the first time you’ll really be among a great majority of your classmates. The pressure is on to make some friends, your nerves will be wracked about meeting your potential roommate, and scheduling your first college classes makes everything seem very real. I didn’t know what to expect when I arrived at Ball State orientation, but here are ten things I wish I had known.
1. Your itinerary starts at the butt crack of dawn
Well not really, but you do have to start your day pretty early so if you’re coming in from out of town I highly suggest you rent a hotel room the night before
2. They split you from your parents right off the bat
You’ll walk in with them. You’ll sign in with them. The next thing you know parents are guided out of the building and you are split up into your group. I knew that I wouldn’t be with my parents for long, but I did not expect it when it happened!
3. Orientation leaders are uber peppy
Period. It’s their job to get you pumped up for life at your new home. These people will be ready to do thirty jumping jacks while singing Eye of the Tiger while you’re still wiping the crust from your eyes. Sure, at first you’ll want to kill them for having the energy of a four month old Chihuahua at 7 am, but you’ll love it once you’ve given it a few hours.
4. Dress appropriately
Everyone wants to dress to impress while amongst their future peers, but comfort definitely counts. You’ll be walking A LOT. You’ll be playing A LOT of icebreaker games. I promise it will be hotter than hades so sweat should be on your radar. Your best walking shoes and a loose, cute top are vital to your days at orientation.
5. Everyone feels as alone as you do
You know no one and no one knows you. You may feel really alone, but you’re not alone in that feeling. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with others in your group.
6. Spend your dining money sparingly
They give you $30 on a dining card to spend in the dining halls for your three meals while staying on campus. It’s plenty for the average teenager, but if you don’t spend it sparingly you’ll end up digging for pocket change to cover the remaining balance you owe later on.
7. You’ll have quite a bit of free time
The itinerary leaves a few gaps of free time such as during lunch, an hour or two before dinner, and then after the campus 360 tour. Taking advantage of this free time to hang out with the new people you’ve met can lead to some great memories. Go visit Benny at night or test out the whispering wall. There’s plenty of Ball State legends to check out.
8. Your overnight stay is not anything like a hotel stay
It will feel like it, but it’s not at all. I recommend bringing an extra pillow and a blanket. Also, bring your shower goodies with you just in case you decide to shower in the morning. The school provides you with a pillow and sheets but that’s it. Unless that’s all you need, pack accordingly.
9. Bring your belongings to the residence hall before you check in
They will hold onto your things while you go through the morning itinerary in a small side room with your name on it. You’ll only have to make one trip to and from the car in your time there. It’ll save you a lot of time and sweat.
10. Know which classes you want to take
The scheduling process goes very quickly, but your advisor is very understanding and cares a lot about putting you into the right classes. Knowing which classes you want to take eventually and which ones you have to take will make the process run very smoothly.
