6 Tips for New Students

6 Tips for New Students

Stepping onto your new college campus for the first time is an exciting experience and a profound transition in your life. As you breathe in the crisp fall air, you begin to envision the countless possibilities awaiting you over the next four years. Moving to a new place can be overwhelming, especially if it is your first time on your own in an unfamiliar environment. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone on this journey.

Amidst the whirlwind of new friends, knowledge, and experiences you will encounter in your first few months of college, you will also discover a wealth of resources and opportunities designed to support and guide first-year students like you as you adjust. From academic support to career guidance, clubs and athletics, spiritual support and counseling services, and much more, Eastern provides everything you need to thrive in your first year as an Eagle.

Here are 6 tips for your 1st month at EU:

TIP #1: JOIN A CLUB

Eastern's campus life has much to offer for students. Whether your interests are athletics, arts, advocacy, writing, or exploring other cultures, Eastern has something for you. In addition to our 26 Men's & Women's Athletics Teams, browse our 40+ student-led Clubs and Organizations ranging from academic interests, multicultural opportunities, faith and spirituality, advocacy, media and writing, arts and performance, service and justice, and so many more. Joining a club is also a great way to meet people who share your interests and form friendships!

TIP #2: FIND A JOB

Finding a job early in your college journey not only provides financial support but also valuable work experience. Explore local job listings and on-campus opportunities to kickstart your professional development, add to your resume, and make some extra cash!

• Jobs in the Neighborhood newsletter - search for local jobs around campus.
• Handshake - make an appointment to discuss job and internship opportunities on Handshake. Jobs on Handshake also include on-campus positions that fit with Federal Work Study.

TIP #3: EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES TO GROW IN FAITH

Faith is a core value here at Eastern, and we want to ensure students have the opportunities and resources they need to explore faith and connect with God. There are so many ways to do this on campus!

• Weekly Chapel - Join us in McInnis Auditorium on Wednesdays at 3 pm for worship, teaching, and fellowship.
• Service Learning - First-year students serve for 20 hours in under-resourced communities and engage with a variety of justice issues as part of a required First-Year Seminar course.
• Student Ministries - Explore ministries such as YACHT (Youth Against Complacency and Homelessness Today), IJM (International Justice Mission), Habitat for Humanity, UnCeasing Prayer, Transformed Drama Ministry, Prison Ministry, and Wednesday Night Worship.
• Weekly Bible Study opportunities run by Student Chaplains.

TIP #4: EXPLORE YOUR MAJOR

Whether you entered college undecided on a major, or want to know more about the major you are enrolled in, it is important to research and discover all of the opportunities and possibilities available to you within your major. Understanding your potential career paths is essential for making informed decisions as you build toward your future career.

• Meet Your Major Fair (Sept. 9) - This is an opportunity for first-year students to explore the majors offered, meet with faculty in each department, and read information on the classes and curriculum offered within each major.
• What can I do with this major? - Whether you are exploring multiple majors or searching for information about your chosen field, this helpful website will help you connect majors to career paths. Learn about the types of employers that hire people within each major and strategies to make you a more marketable candidate.
• Career Goals - Students are encouraged to request an appointment with a Career Counselor to discuss what majors best fit their career goals. Career Counselors will be present twice in every INST-150 class to speak with first-year students about using Strengths Finder and how to build a resume.

TIP #5: GET THE ACADEMIC SUPPORT YOU NEED

College curriculums can feel like a big transition from high school studies. If there are classes you think you might need extra support with, it is important to get the help you need early to keep yourself from falling behind.

The Academic Resource Center (ARC) offers academic coaching, the Testing Center, and the Writing and Tutoring Center. It is located on the third floor of the Harold Howard Center.

TIP #6: PRIORITIZE YOUR WELL-BEING

Your mental and physical health are crucial during your college journey. Make sure to take advantage of the wellness resources available at Eastern to help you manage stress and stay healthy, especially as you adjust to your first semester.

The Cushing Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is dedicated to serving Eastern University students who need counseling or psychological services to realize their potential during their college experience and is free for enrolled students.

Final Thoughts

You've got this! Starting college is a monumental step filled with both excitement and new challenges. By considering these 6 tips, you can set a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling experience, while setting yourself up for success during your first month. Embrace the journey with an open mind and heart, and remember that there is a wealth of resources at your fingertips to support you as you navigate life at Eastern.