Tips for First-year Students

Opening day is quickly arriving.  This is an exciting time for us.  We love the energy that comes with the start of a new year and the opportunity to meet our new students.  We understand that transitioning to college can be difficult at times and for everyone it is a different experience.  Understanding that we all face new environments differently is important.  Here are some tips that I wanted to provide to incoming students as they prepare for the start of their careers at Wentworth.

  1. Go to the Student Activities Fair (September 8) and consider joining a club that interests you.
  2. Find a place to study where you know you will be productive. (some ideas: library, study space in your residence hall, a conference room in the Campus Center)
  3. Be sure to schedule some time alone.  College can be busy and having time to step back and reflect can be very helpful.
  4. If you live on campus get to you the students in your residence hall.  If you are commuting, attend events that allows you to meet other commuters.  Also, get to know people in your classes.
  5. Attend your classes.
  6. Again, if you live on campus, decide on a time to do your laundry ad try to stick to that time that way you know you are getting it done.
  7. Don’t forget to communicate with your family.  Whether you live on campus, in an apartment or at home, communicating with family is important.  This is just as much an adjustment for them as it is for you.
  8. Find out what there is to do around campus. Boston is waiting to be explored.
  9. Use a planner and write down all of your assignments and tests for each class as soon as you get your syllabus.  There is a great planner in your student handbook!
  10. Don’t be afraid of your professors and use their office hours to get assistance if you need it.
  11. Remember… everyone is in the same boat when it comes to friends, everyone is looking to make them so relax and be yourself.

If at anytime you have questions about campus or are looking for some advice about your transition seek out your resources.  Here are just a few:

The Center for Academic Excellence

Office of Student Affairs

Center for Wellness and Disability Support Services

Housing and Residential Life

Center for Student Engagement

Center for Diversity and Social Justice