Entering college can be an extremely uncomfortable and difficult transition. After high school, teenagers are expected to leave home and traverse new places on their own. Ohio University could not have felt more foreign to me. I had a fantastic first year of college, but there are still some things I wish I had done to make it easier.
One thing I wish I knew before starting freshman year is the importance of meeting neighbors. People who live in the same dorm, especially on the same floor, are a team. During the first few days of school, it is crucial to get to know the people living nearby because those people can help later on in so many ways. Getting locked out of the building, not having a spoon for cereal and needing help moving out are all very real problems neighbors can help with.
Classmates can become best friends. Everyone is new and feels intimidated by meeting others. Don't let that fear stop the development of new, possibly lifelong, friendships. Talk to anyone who looks interesting or seems to share a common interest. Learn to make small talk with people and diminish the fear of embarrassment. Offer that classmate a piece of gum. Ask to borrow a pen from someone in the library. Make a weekly study group for a difficult class. Don't be afraid to socialize; it's what will make college the time of your life.
Upperclassmen will emphasize how important it is to get to know professors, and they aren't exaggerating. When applying for jobs and internships, letters of recommendation are the ticket to better opportunities. Many students do not go to office hours and professors will notice the ones who do. So, although it may seem weird and uncomfortable, take advantage of office hours to talk to professors.
Getting to know people is important, but getting to know Athens will perfect the Ohio University experience. Try to go somewhere new every day when arriving at OU. Try all the local restaurants and cafes, visit every floor of the library, enjoy all the different outdoor spaces. If you’re lucky enough to know someone with a car on campus, go to all the beautiful parks nearby. Not all memories can be made from inside a dorm room; get out and explore all the places that make Athens special.
The cure for homesickness is not going home. It is natural to miss our homes and families, but students have to grow forward and explore alone. Try to stay at school for the first few months; do not go home every weekend unless it is absolutely necessary. College students have only four years to make memories before we have to reminisce. Don't waste those four years away from the place you will spend the rest of your life dreaming about. Visit family using a phone, not a car.
A lot of problems for incoming freshmen stem from fear. It is scary to enter a new chapter of life in a new city full of strangers. However, it is important to remember almost everyone in this situation is a little scared. Fight the fear and explore the exciting new world in front of you.
Kenzie Shuman is a sophomore studying Journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Kenzie know by emailing her at ms667222@ohio.edu or messaging her on Instagram @zieshuman.
