7 Helpful Takeaways from My College Orientation
Orientation season is here, and if you’re anything like I was before starting college, you’re starting to get all geared up and ready to go as your session approaches. Don’t stress, though! You’ll get into the swing of things quickly. To help, I’ve listed my top takeaways from my own Orientation experience. Check them out – they might make you feel a little better about your first big step into the Bearcat family!
Think positive
Starting anything expecting a bad experience will only make it turn out that way. Instead, try to enter Orientation with an open mind and positive attitude. Many people will have the same questions as you, so just live in the moment and enjoy yourself! You’d be surprised how much it can turn a situation around!
Pay attention
At the start of Orientation, you will be provided with a schedule. It’s important that you take note of where you have to be at the given times, since these events will provide you with important information about campus and the things you need to do to get ready for your first semester. You don’t want to miss the important stuff!
Participate in activities
Everyone says this, but it is genuinely important to ensure you have a good experience and set the tone for your first year. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to participate in the events that your are leading - it’s one of the best ways to meet new people and get used to campus.
Keep hydrated and nourished
This often gets overlooked because of all the events going on, but you should make sure to mind your health, especially with all the walking and outdoor activities. It’s easy to get dehydrated or hungry, which could leave you feeling tired or sick, and sour your experience. Drink plenty of water and enjoy your meals!
Meet new people
The small Orientation groups you’ll be placed in are perfect for meeting new faces and making friends. from students is to take the time to connect with one another at orientation and start some conversations. You never know who you may meet and how it will steer your Binghamton experience!
Manage your time
During Orientation, you will eventually have open periods where you can roam about campus freely and explore the various offices, organizations, and departments. Take the time to find out about programs or clubs you might want to be a part of and learn about all that Binghamton has to offer.
Don't overthink it
Orientation can be a stressful or nerve-wracking experience for many people, but it’s important that you don’t overthink it! Be yourself and enjoy the moment, and avoid over-analyzing your every movement. I promise the experience will be much better when you’re not stressing out over the little things.
Brennan Cowden is a first-year student from Binghamton. He majors in strategic communication with concentrations on internal communications and public relations. He hopes to specialize in client and customer experience. In his free time, he enjoys binge-watching shows or playing video games with friends.
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