13 Things All Penn State First-Years Should Know

Smeal Student Mentors have some advice for first-year students to help guide them through their first year.

1. Don't be afraid to do things alone!

The first few weeks of college can be scary, but it is the best time to grow. Don’t be afraid to go to the dining hall alone (we promise no one cares). Join organizations because YOU want to join them, not because you feel obligated to join with your friends. Try everything and don’t let the fear of being judged prevent you from achieving your potential.

2. Introduce yourself to someone in every class

Getting to know someone in your classes is a great way to meet new people but also to gain a study buddy during exam weeks! Many of your classes your first semester will be mostly fellow first-years so they likely have some of the same fears you do. Make friends with people, it really is so easy.

3. Live in the present moment as much as possible

There are so many different things and people to get involved with here and the resources Penn State provides are ones that could give you the best 4 years of your life. Enjoy each day for what it is and try to capitalize on your time here as much as possible.

4. Get involved as early as possible

Your first year is when you will have the most free time, so join as many organizations as you want and choose a few to stick with. It’s ok if you join an organization and then decide you don’t want to do it anymore, especially in those first months of your first year.

5. Create and stick to a routine

Create and stick to a routine that combines your academic, extracurricular, and social ambitions through the culmination of time management and task prioritization. Essentially, find a routine that works for you that allows you to accomplish as many things as possible. One effective way to do this is having a calendar (digital or traditional) to keep track of all of your tasks and easily see due dates. Staying organized will go a long way and will help you navigate your way. Buying a planner, or even just having a sticky note on your computer will help you stay on top of your work and will lead to your success!

6. Always keep the door open!

Always keep the door open truly means be open to meeting all kinds of people wherever you go. Take that first step, keep that door open, broaden your horizons and meet new people! You never know the opportunities and connections you may find just beyond that door.

7. Networking can be as simple as a conversation & be prepared!

Networking can be a daunting task especially during career fairs and expos but it doesn’t have to be. Networking isn’t all resumes and suits. Going up to professionals and asking them some questions about their day and what they do can create meaningful connections as well.

While on the topic of professionalism, make sure you have a set of business clothes when you come to campus! As business majors, it is important to be prepared to look professional due to the numerous professional development events in Smeal. Have a suit on hand for guys, and girls have slacks with a blouse and blazer or pencil skirt. When in doubt, google examples of business professional outfits!

8. Don't procrastinate!

Keeping up with classes is easier than falling behind and having to catch-up. Create a calendar/planner system to make sure you are up to date with all of your classes and assignments. As you become involved and responsibilities mount, you need to be organized and on top of your class work.

9. Start searching for housing early!

This may be hard to believe, but in State College most students sign for their apartments a year in advance. If living off-campus your sophomore (and beyond) year is something you want to do, start looking way in advance. My freshman year I started looking for apartments/roommates for sophomore in September and signed my lease in October. Housing in State College goes quickly and is probably more expensive than expected. Living downtown (especially in the high rise apartments) is the most expensive option, and the further away you get from downtown the cheaper the rent. However, this doesn't account for all of the perks of living downtown such as being able to walk to campus and enjoy all of the local restaurants and stores. Try to find somewhere that works for you, but don't feel pressured to sign for an apartment or choosing who to live with. You will have time, but it's better to think about it earlier.

10. Go to gym classes!

Most gym classes are free to all Penn State students, so take advantage! Some favorites include power yoga, HIIT, cycling, and more. There are a ton of group fitness classes held every day, so explore the Campus Rec website and app to find an activity you enjoy!

11. It’s okay if you fail your first exam.

College classes are hard! It takes a long time to get used to a new schedule along with the rigor of being a college student. Many people fail their first college exam, so you’re not the only one! To make things easier, go to your professors office hours or ask your Smeal Student Mentor for effective study habits!

12. Don’t be afraid to branch out of your major!

Go to other career fairs and join clubs based on interests and community service too. Being multifaceted will help you make friends, figure out what you want to do with your career, and always looks great on resumes.

13. Learn to use the buses!

Some days you won't want to walk to class or downtown, especially in the Winter when it's freezing outside. So, definitely learn how to use the buses (and see the quick guide below)!

Penn State has three different bus routes that are free to students and the community: the Red Link, Blue Loop, and White Loop. The buses are run by CATA and have many stops on campus. The Red Link goes to West Campus and the hospital and runs two directions. The Blue Loop runs through campus and down to College Avenue, as well as all the way to the commuter parking lots behind the BJC, only going one direction. The White Loop is the one I take most often because it stops next to my apartment building. It runs through campus and down to Beaver Avenue, going the opposite direction of the Blue Loop. Lastly, be sure to download the MyStop app to your phone. This will tell you what buses stop where as well as how far away they are from you. Don't be afraid to try the buses, they can be super helpful!