College Crash Course: What Freshmen Really Need to Know
As you look toward embracing the college lifestyle, you might be wondering what you need to know to survive—and thrive—as an incoming freshman. We asked current college students what they wished they had known starting out, and they shared some great advice:
Your roommate might not be your best friend. And that’s OK.
You’ve probably heard the “roomie romance” story before: roommates turned best friends turned attendants in each other’s weddings. It’s not complete fiction—your roommate could become your built-in college bestie! But it’s also OK if your roommate is just someone you share a room with.
Keep the door to your dorm room open.
If you live in a residence hall that encourages connecting with others, consider leaving the door to your dorm room open so that fellow residents feel welcome to stop by and chat. Not only will you get to know the people living closest to you, but you might also make some new friends!
Niche.com ranks Northwestern College as having the best college dorms in the country. Each residence hall is staffed by a full-time resident director and has its own close-knit community and annual traditions.
Don’t procrastinate.
Instead of waiting until the last minute to finish an assignment or cram for an exam, do yourself a favor and prioritize your studies. Use a planner or the notes app on your phone to keep track of deadlines and test dates. Set aside non-negotiable study times and go somewhere you know you won’t be distracted.
Need some homework help? Northwestern’s Student Success Center has 150+ student tutors who offer free academic support in every subject area.
Ask lots of questions and use campus resources.
Your questions can almost always be answered—you just have to ask them! Learn about the support services your college offers, such as on-campus health care and/or counseling, career development services, tutoring, and accessibility accommodations. Then when you need additional support, you’ll know exactly who to turn to.
In addition to free tutoring, Northwestern provides free, confidential counseling services. You can also get help applying for internships, writing a resume and cover letter, learning key interview skills, and more at our Compass Center for Career & Calling.
Get involved!
Another good way to make friends is to get involved with activities you enjoy. Join a club. Play a sport, esports or intramurals. Audition for a theatre production or music ensemble. And whenever you can, attend student life events.
At Northwestern, you may even earn a scholarship for your involvement in athletics, esports, music, theatre or worship arts.
Know that you’re not alone.
Your first year of college is a major adjustment, but remember that every other freshman is in the same boat as you. Whenever you’re struggling, try sharing your concerns with a freshman or upperclassman friend. It’s likely that he or she will understand what you’re going through and may even be aware of resources that could help.
Do you want a college environment where you’ll be loved, known and cared for? Check out our website to learn more about Iowa’s Standout Christian College.
