The first year of college, while exciting and life changing, can sometimes feel like walking through an endless hallway with hundreds of open doors. In classes, parties, social organizations, and even food — the possibilities feel unlimited. Here’s a list of Do’s and Don’ts to guide you through the constant decision-making of freshman year.
#1. Don’t Underestimate the Constant (and Usually Unwanted) Presence of Your Basic History Class.
The WKU history professors are known to torment unadjusted freshmen. You will write papers and take pop quizzes — with or without a hangover. If you’re trying to ease into college academia, a communications class may be a better, softer choice for your first semester.
#2. Do Try New and Different Classes That Interest You.
WKU does not make you decide your major from the get-go. You have time to explore. So do it. Choose anything from Criminology to an Equestrian Course on the WKU Farm. Freshman year is the time to figure out what you like and what you hate so that you can begin to shape your future.
#3. Don’t Fear WKU Dorm Life.
It can be shocking and discomforting to give up privacy to live in a dorm. But as you are figuring out life on campus, it is good to remember that your roommate and floormates are too. The people you live with are the ones who will laugh, cry, party and eat every meal with you.
#4. Do Learn Proper Dorm Etiquette. Quickly.
Seeing the same people everyday and living in such close quarters means it is extremely important to remain hygienic, happy and chill in almost every situation. This includes when your roommate throws up all over the showers at 3 a.m. and needs a hand cleaning up. Or when that leftover Subway sandwich in your refrigerator turns two weeks old.
#5. Don’t Save Your Laundry for Sunday Night.
This is a lesson that extends past the simple everyday task of doing laundry. Procrastination is rampant and the laundry machines are evil. If you try your best to do at least some of your work before the day it’s due, you will spend less time stressing and more time having fun. If you do your laundry midweek, you will avoid the painstakingly long lines and save hours.
#6. Do Keep a Stash of Quarters.
To do laundry at WKU you need at least $5 worth of quarters. The machines hate you, and they want to ruin your day. Don’t think that you can just get coins from the change machines or the soda vendors, because they hate you too. Try to find a place to do your laundry off campus.
#7. Don’t Miss Out.
Something is always going on around campus. Getting involved is important, and FOMO is real. Participation in anything—even a pickup game of ultimate Frisbee—will help you meet friends, establish connections and make your experience at WKU as meaningful as it can be.