Here’s the 7th and final part of my Studyblr University Orientation Week.Â
The first day of class is stressful for everyone, even the upper year students. Here are some tips to help make it as easy as possible for you.Â
Know where you’re going. Check your schedule the night before and know what classroom you’re in. If possible, go to it before the first day so that you know how to get there. If not, look for a map of your campus online (you also may have been given one during orientation).Â
Pack your bag the night before. That way you won’t be scrambling to find a pencil two minutes before you leave and can instead be panicking about making friends.Â
Greet the people sitting next to you. They could be potential new friends or study buddies. It may also help you feel more relaxed if the person next to you isn’t a complete stranger.Â
Look over the syllabus before the first class. That way you won’t be surprised when you find out that the research paper is worth 50% of your final mark.Â
Wear an outfit that you feel confident in. I know it’s cliched, and you don’t have to pick it out the night before, but wearing clothes that are comfortable/you feel good in may help to relieve some of your nerves.Â
Your first class will most likely just be the prof going over the syllabus and answering questions about themselves or the course. Don’t worry about knowing everything yet.Â
There will probably be one smug jackass who acts like they already do know everything. Ignore them. They either don’t know everything and just want to seem smart or they’re a showy jerk. Either way, they aren’t worth your time or anxiety over being smart enough to be here. You’re obviously smart enough if you’re here.Â
This isn’t a first day specific thing but: For many of you this will be your first time seeing service dogs. This is just a friendly reminder not to touch them without their owner’s permission or talk to them in a cutesy voice. It can distract them from doing their job or even undo the training.Â
Similarly to the above, this may be your first time meeting someone in a wheelchair. Don’t touch someone’s wheelchair unless they have given you permission to. The chair is an extension of themselves and touching it or moving them without their permission is really rude. (If I’ve said something weird here, please let me know as I am able-bodied.)Â
Don’t feel scared if you don’t know anyone in your class yet. Most people don’t and they’ll be more than willing to befriend you.Â
Don’t feel weird about eating alone. Lots of people do it. If you’re worried about looking or feeling awkward, bring a book or look at something on your phone.Â
Wait a few days to buy your textbooks. Compare the prices of new and used books at your university’s bookstore to the prices of students reselling their old textbooks. You can usually get a pretty decent deal by shopping around online. (You may also find out that something’s only recommended reading)Â
Find a seat that you like. A lot of the time, particularly in smaller classes, this will end up being your seat for the rest of the year.Â
Take a deep breath. You’ve got this.Â