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Can you believe that the day has come? College orientation! You’re probably anxious, stressed, but also super excited. During orientation you’ll learn tons about your new home, meet future friends, and get to completely immerse yourself into a bunch of new activities. If you’re curious or even a bit nervous about picking classes, finding the best food on campus, and how you’re going to study, but still party, this is for you!

1. How to register for classes

College orientation can be extremely stressful for many students. When thinking about the classes that begin their college career, it can become overwhelming. Luckily, you’ll spend part of orientation picking out classes with Orientation Leaders and advisors who are looking out for you. You’ll be fully prepared and have a full schedule of classes in no time.

Don’t be afraid to ask current students about what classes they took, opinions on professors (they love sharing their stories!), and tips on how to prepare for the next time you have to pick classes.

2. Where the resources are

You’re now on your own, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. Your campus will have many resources to help you including support groups, a food pantry, and advisors. Your orientation leaders will know all the places to get help, but also where the writing center is, what office hours mean, and how general staff are there to help you through more than just academics.

Looking for help on demand? An app such as Rayna can help you receive mental health care whenever, and wherever you need while at college. We all know what it’s like to run late to an appointment, but what if you could text with your therapist, or even take your appointment out on the quad on your own schedule?

3. How important time management is

Many students do not realize how important time management is until it’s too late. Luckily, many colleges spend a bit of time during orientation helping you manage your time between school, work, clubs, and a social life. 

Professors will not nag you to turn in work, parents aren’t there to be your walking alarm clock, and you don’t have a curfew to worry about. With all this new found independence it’s important to learn how to manage your time. Finding a balance is super important and lets you truly enjoy college.

4. Homesickness is normal

Homesickness happens more than you know. For some students they’ll get their first taste of homesickness if their college is doing an overnight or multi-day orientation. Others will feel it during the school year. Either way, whether you’re moving thousands of miles from home, or even to the other side of town, it’s completely normal to miss your friends, family, pets, home, or favorite place. Find support you need, and talk to others who feel the same way.

5. Icebreakers are embarrassing, but necessary

When you’re around new people, think of it as a judgement free zone. Those icebreakers that just feel like silly games are actually the perfect place to make new friends. Don’t be afraid to participate in the activities. Let go of any inhibitions and just have fun. More often than not, these icebreaker activities aren’t the thing that brings students together, but the mutual dislike for them. You’ll find yourself talking about those silly games in the years to come. 

Icebreakers are just a part of the freshman experience. We’ve all been there, and we all survived.