Starting college can be both exciting and overwhelming. Here is advice from some 2023-2024 UM freshmen to help you thrive during your first year of college.
Balance your time
Striking a balance between studying and socializing is crucial for a successful college career. Learn from the experiences of your peers and do not make the same mistakes they did.
“You have to learn when you’re going out too much and not going out enough. You have to find a good balance or you’ll not have fun or do too badly in school,” Sam Strange, a business major from Jackson, Miss., said.
Choose your classes wisely
Picking the right courses can make or break your academic experience. Be sure to check out your professor, keep up with your degree requirements and craft your ideal schedule to make sure that you show up and stay engaged.
“Take what you want to take, but obviously make sure to listen to your (academic) adviser. When I find the ability to love what I’m learning, I’m having a good time,” James Barber, a mechanical engineering major from Centennial, Colo., said.
Actually go to class
Attending classes regularly is crucial to academic success. Even if you are not paying full attention, it is amazing how much information you retain from just showing up.
“I’ve figured out more of what I want to do just because I was going to class,” Max Ermo, a finance major from Houston, Texas, said.
Create meaningful relationships
Whether you are from Mississippi or out-of-state, building genuine connections is an essential part of the college experience. Still, it is important to create and maintain boundaries.
“It’s okay to be alone. You don’t have to be around people constantly. Even though your first week of class you’ll look around and see all these people that appear to have friends, just remember that you’ll make friends in time,” Megan Winters, a political science major from Littleton, Colo., said.
Embrace change and homesickness
Navigating homesickness and getting used to a new environment are common roadblocks for freshmen. The first few months are often the hardest, but it gets easier.
“Being really far from home, it was really scary. First semester, I was really homesick and I had that fear of ‘Am I going to have friends?’ But I found that you have to be uncomfortable to be comfortable,” Annabelle Kirchner, a general business major from Parker, Colo., said.
Enjoy the journey
College is a time for growth, exploration and lasting memories.
“Take it slow. Everything goes by so fast when you first get here. You’re going to be so overwhelmed,” Samantha Brown, a journalism major from Gainesville, Va., said.
Take the advice shared by fellow freshmen to heart, but also remember that everyone’s Ole Miss experience is different. Keep an open mind to new experiences, be willing to step out of your comfort zone and, most importantly, enjoy the journey. Your first year will fly by, but the memories will last a lifetime.
Here’s to an unforgettable freshman year!
