Your first week of school on a new campus can be a tough one, especially if you’re not from the area. Not only are you away from home and out of your usual element, but the environment is likely completely different than what you’re used to. Educational institutions like UCLA started their fall quarter on the 24th so by week’s end you will have an idea of what you are getting into and what to expect but we understand it’s not hard to get overwhelmed. Be you a freshman, recent transfer or coming back from an academic break, there are a few lessons that can help you for the upcoming quarter and beyond. So get your notepad ready (or bookmark this blog) and jot down these bits of advice to survive campus after your first week of school!
Develop Your Routes
So you’re finally settled into your dorm room or apartment and have a firm understanding of where your classes are – good. But life is clearly about more than your academic schedules; grocery stores, local food joints, clothing shops, laundry, department stores – these things will become a part of your day to day. Knowing how to get where you need to be and when you most likely need to do it is good to knock out as soon as you can. These will all eventually become second nature but the sooner its habit, the more time you will have to focus on things like your academics and social life. Speaking of social life…
Start Looking Into Clubs
Some people make friends very easily but there are plenty out there that don’t know where to even start. Being new to campus also means you’re likely new to the area and don’t’ have much of a foundation beyond your home, your classes and your transportation. Clubs are a great way to get out there and meet people with similar interests! Your first week of school is great for getting yourself acclimated to campus life but from here on out try going to some meetings, visiting booths or signing up for events. Students form clubs for things like film, video games, literature, sports and more! You will find something… and probably find some life-long friends in the process. Friends are also great for help in one other, very important school activity…
Find Your Study Process
Some people study well in groups, some people need a clean, tidy environment, and some people can study in absolute chaos – people are different. It’s important to nail down your particular study habits after your first week of school. You have likely already gotten a good taste as to what you’re getting into, and we can assure you that university academics will be tougher than what you were used to prior. Honing in your focus and finding new places and friends to help absorb information is something that takes time but getting started early will ensure that it becomes a regular thing. Speaking of good habits…
Discover Your Style and Keep Clean!
College is a time of discovery, where you will experience massive personal growth and fundamental changes with your identity. Your first week of school is all about adjustment and figuring out the goals and support structure of your new life. After week one you get to see where exactly you fit and in what makes you who you are. You might try a different look, spend time with a different type of crowd or even start developing new interests. This is normal and your look will soon adjust to who you are, but not without putting yourself out there!
Also, no one wants to be the smelly kid in class so after your first week of school, make sure you know where and when to wash your clothes. London Cleaners is a great resource and is a staple in the Westwood community! Like us on Facebook for updates and blog posts or utilize our services like pickup and delivery! And remember, enjoy college life – you’ll be thankful you did.
