Incoming college freshmen may be overwhelmed with the many adjustments that they will be facing this school year. It's good to be prepared and equip yourself with the things that you should and should not do.

In an article for USA Today College, Meghan Mistry, an orientation leader at Syracuse University, shared the things that she wants incoming college freshmen to know. Her experience as an orientation leader and her years in college gave Meghan the knowledge of these tips that can help new college students.

  1. Be open-minded. Be kind and friendly. You'll meet different types of people in college and you never know who'll become your closest friends.
  2. Keep it simple. Don't overpack and clutter your dorm room even before things get busy.
  3. Join welcome events for freshmen. While it may be cheesy and awkward, again, you'll never know who you'll meet. Plus, it's a good opportunity to start networking.
  4. Attend the involvement fair. Check out what areas of involvement works for you. You can also choose to start your own club if you like.
  5. Allow your parents to help you move in. They're also going through a process of letting you go. Don't be embarrassed if they want to make moving in easier for you.
  6. Stay humble. Don't forget where you grew up and the people who helped you become who you are today.
  7. Don't wait for your parents to call, contact them regularly as well as your high school friends. Keep your parents updated on how you are adjusting to life in college.
  8. Do your best. Work hard. Education is a privilege. Make sure that you do what you need to do to keep your parents proud.
  9. But remember that GPA isn't everything. College is the time to explore new things and get to know yourself. Create memories with your friends without sacrificing your grades.
  10. It's fine to ask for help. There are always people who are willing to lend a helping hand if you just reach out to them.
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Tags College, Freshman, Tips, Campus life, University