7 Ways To Transition From Home To Campus

College is a huge, exciting transition, and we are here to make it even better! By following these seven tips, you're bound to have a great experience during your first year at ISU, #FutureRedbird!

1. Meet your roommate before you move in

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Being nervous about move in is totally normal. However, meeting your roommate beforehand gives you the opportunity to hang out, talk, see if you have things in common, and even plan what you will bring on move in day.

2. Bring your home to your residence hall – bringing items that remind you of home is the key to not being “home sick”. Whether it’s a picture of your family, a mug you always use or your favorite blanket, all are great ideas to help you remember home while adapting to your new home.

3. Stay organized – moving to a new place is exciting but can be overwhelming. However, staying organized can help you lessen that back to school stress. Printing out your schedule, ordering your class books ahead of time or taking a workout class to de-stress are some great ideas worth giving a shot!

4. Join an RSO

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Registered Student Organizations, otherwise known as RSOs, are a great way to meet people in your major, or who have the same hobbies as you. It’s a great addition for your future resume too. Fun Fact: Among the many hobby-based RSOs, we have ones specific to majors, as well as fraternities and sororities here on campus. Check out a full list of our RSOs here!

5. Meet people on your floor

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The best part about being in a dorm is meeting new people. If you like working out, find someone who will go to the Rec with you. Hungry? We bet someone else will be too! Aside from our dining centers, the Bone Student Center is home to McAlister's, Einstein's, Burger King and Pizza Hut to name a few, so you have plenty of options to choose from!

6. Introduce yourself to your teachers

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Introducing yourself may be somewhat intimidating, but your professors are here for you. They are here to teach you, listen to you, and learn from you as well. They want to get to know you, and they are happy to help you, #FutureRedbird!

7. Get out of your dorm – yes, your dorm is considered your new ”home” on campus, but don’t coop yourself up. Uptown, located down the street from Watterson Dining Center, is a great place to explore, grab coffee, or get a bite to eat. Want to soak in the scenery? ISU’s quad is a relaxing place to sit down and take in the scenery of beautiful trees and playful squirrels.

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Medici, located in Uptown Normal, is the perfect place to have a sit down meal with your friends, or your family - they even have rooftop seating!

Moving into college is a big step, but it doesn't need to be a nerve-racking one! Exploring campus, making friends and taking on new hobbies will make ISU feel like home in no time, #FutureRedbird!