University Life Chapter 1: New Student Orientation
College is an exciting time, but the actual process of starting at a university can be intimidating, overwhelming, chaotic…all of which may overshadow the excitement of starting a new adventure. Paperwork has to be filled out, classes have to be registered for, books have to be bought, the to-do list never seem to end on top of having to learn your way around campus, navigate new social spaces, and get ready for the stresses of university life.
That is where orientation comes in. New Student Orientation marks the official start of your journey at CUE. Though the fast-paced nature of it may be overwhelming at times, you get all sorts of important information (and goodies) during presentations, tours, and information sessions.
This year, I had the pleasure of talking to several new and returning students at CUE’s New Student Orientation held on Thursday, August 29 during the Student Services Expo, an event showcasing the resources, events, and programs across campus. Regardless of their program of study or background, the common theme among the new students I spoke to was a mixture of excitement and nervousness about the start of the school year. Chloe - who is starting her degree in Environmental Science - said “it’s just a lot all at once. I’m excited to start but there’s still a lot of unknowns. I know where stuff is, but I don’t really know anyone here or what classes will be like.” Dilraj, a beginning sociology major, agreed saying “I’m sure we’ll get into the swing of things, it’s just a lot right now.”
Several returning students sympathized with those just starting out. Matthew, new to Concordia but a veteran of university life, said the biggest piece of advice he could offer was “just learn to ask for help. You don’t know where a building or room is? You need some help with class material or homework? You’re not sure how to do something? You don’t always have to take the hard road and figure everything out by yourself. Asking for help makes your life easier and you make connections with people around you.” Ruby, another budding sociologist, remembered being told something similar. “I’ve been told several times to make sure I know what resources are available and to make sure to talk to my professors. That’s the part that seems scariest right now.”
Starting at a new school is always a little scary. You are surrounded by new people, new places, new experiences. But it won’t be new forever. Soon you’ll get into the groove. You’ll be able to navigate campus with your eyes shut and before you know it, your first semester will be over. So embrace the new, have fun with it, university life won’t last forever.
