15 Things To Do Freshman Year At Penn State

Penn State students are so lucky to be going to a school that has so much to offer. Although freshman year will mostly be a learning process, there is still so much you can do to make sure your first year will be amazing.

1. Get season football tickets

High school football games have nothing on Beaver stadium’s student section. There is nothing like standing in that stadium and hearing the roar of cheers for your team. Beyond just the game, the experience of dressing up and tailgating is unbeatable. Season tickets make sure you get into the best games and if you end up having to miss a game then Penn State makes it easy to sell them to the students who don’t have season tickets, so you can make some of your money back!

2. Consider going Greek

In a school of over 40,000, finding your niche can prove to be more difficult. This is especially true if, like me, you are from out of state. Joining a sorority or a fraternity will give you a huge network of friends that can last a lifetime. You will also have the opportunity to enhance your leadership skills and get involved in the community.

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3. Get involved with THON

It is amazing the way Penn State students light up when they talk about THON. The event is a completely student run 46-hour dance marathon to raise money for children and families affected by childhood cancer. Sororities and fraternities at Penn State play a huge role in THON as well as the different committees. There are many ways to get involved with this great cause without spreading yourself too thin, so don’t miss out!

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4. Go to the concerts at Bryce Jordan Center

Bryce Jordan Center brings some amazing shows that aren’t too terribly expensive for students to attend. First semester, my friends and I attended a concert featuring the Weeknd and Gucci Mane. In the past they have had stars such as Kanye West and Florida Georgia Line.

5. Take the fun classes

Yes, the hard classes that are necessary to your major are important, but there are also so many classes that Penn State has to offer to add to your schedule. Some fun options are, Sociology 119, Theatre 100, and Photo 100.

6. Go ice skating at Pegula Ice Rink

The arena most known for Penn State’s Hockey team is also open for student skating and is a good way to get into the winter spirit.

7. Attend a hockey game

The Division 1 hockey team at Penn State is a must-see, students can even join the RoarZone.

8. Try classic restaurants downtown

Downtown State College is packed with fun and unique restaurants from cafés to vegan restaurants. However, if you want the classic Penn State feel, some great options are The Corner Room, Ye Olde College Diner and The Waffle Shop.

9. Take advantage of gyms on campus

Penn State’s newest recreation center, the I.M building, features amazing equipment, basketball courts and multi-use fitness rooms which is open to all Penn State students. Between the White Building and the I.M building there are also so many classes such as pilates, kickboxing and barre.

10. Go to the arboretum

Right across from Penn State’s East Halls, where most freshmen are housed, there is the beautiful arboretum. In the summer, sit among the fountain and beautiful flowers; in the fall there is a fall festival with a pumpkin carving contest.

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11. Participate in Nittanyville

Front row spots in the Penn State football student section is sold out in about 15 seconds. So in order to guarantee front row spots, students have created a now traditional tent village for the most intense games. You may have to give up your dorm bed, but it will be worth it on game day.

12. Bond with your floor mates

Beyond your roommate, this is who you’ll be seeing on a daily basis and it makes it a lot more fun when you all get along. Organize events like karaoke nights and floor dinners. Everyone is new and looking for friends too so put yourself out there!

13. Go shopping downtown

Between Metro, People’s Nation, and Urban Outfitters, there are many local options with tons of cute clothing options.

14. Take cute pictures

The best way to keep memories of your freshman year is to take pictures. Luckily, There are several cute places to take pose with family and friends on campus. Some student favorites is the We Are, the Nittany Lion shrine and in front of Old Main.

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15. Perfect your dorm room

You will unavoidably be spending a lot of time here and therefore you want it to really reflect who you are. You can even coordinate with your roommate for the best results.