It's that time of year again; the freshman are buying out Bed, Bath, and Beyond, stocking up on supplies from Staples, and loading up the cars getting ready for move in day (which just so happens to be this Friday). Last year, I couldn't wait to step foot on the PSA campus, but I was also scared because I didn't know exactly what I was getting into. Now as a returning sophomore, I would like to give freshman and even incoming upper class men a look into some of the more exciting things at Penn State Altoona.
1. Football Games
Whether you are at a branch campus or right down the road from Beaver Stadium, Penn State Football is the biggest thing to sweep through Happy Valley from September through December. If you've never been to a college football game (or if you don't even like football). I honestly recommend you go. Being a part of the best student section in all of college football is a thrill you have to experience at least once in your life. My dream is to be tossed into the air after a touchdown, but everyone has their own dreams.
2. Parties
Sylly week, Homecoming, Halloween, you name it someone is throwing a party. Now partying is not part of everyone's college experience, but if you choose to do so, do it safely. You will climb the hill to Pointe, then go the whole way to Halfway house or even over to White House in one night, it's just something you will do. Never wear nice shoes if you plan on using drunk path, especially after it rains, cause they'll be ruined. Always be respectable of the house/apartment you end up in, watch out for the cops, and always go out in groups.
3. New Freshmen
Finally, someone else who will be the center of everyone's attention. Some of you will have friends coming to Altoona, like me, and some of you will just be meeting all new people, but regardless the class of 2019 has a new class to guide through college, just like the class before us did (well, kinda). Some tips for you new freshman: Do not wear your lanyards around your neck with your key on it (trust me), don't use that blue thing they give you to hold your id (it's an easy way to spot the freshman), and don't be afraid to go to the freshman ice breakers (they will help you make friends).
4. Living in a Dorm Room
If you were an only child (much like myself) getting the chance to live with someone else can be pretty exciting, which is why I was so happy to be living on campus. Unfortunately for me I got a few duds, which made freshman year harder than it needed to be. If you have a friend, you should definitely try living together, which can help bring you closer. But if you have to live with a random, don't be afraid, some of the best friendships are the unexpected ones.
5. Port Sky
Let's face it, everyone has that one thing at Port that they actually looked forward to. It took a while to get used to, but once we did, the food still wasn't that great. On the nights where Port couldn't satisfy our hunger, Great China was the next best thing (they take lion cash and they deliver, it's a win win). Freshmen, be aware of the PSS (Port Sky shits) but don't let that scare you into eating ramen in your room every night. Look forward to wing night, Chinese food, or even potato madness (my personal fave) because whether you like it or not, this is what you have to deal with until Thanksgiving break. P.S. Keep an eye out for Patty, she's a wild one.
6. Ducks and Squirrels
Sadly, the ducks are more important than the students at PSA, especially after the babies are born. The squirrels can be pretty interesting too, usually the two are the talk of Yik Yak. Prepare yourselves for all the poop, squirrel fights, and the occasional duck that wanders into Port (with the help of eager college students holding the doors open).
7. New Schedules/Teachers/Classes
Transitioning from high school to college can be scary, but it's easy once you get used to it. And if you're coming back from a crappy semester, here is your chance to start fresh. Stay on top of your work, keep organized, and actually study. Now some tips for the freshmen: Don't schedule that 8 am (unless its the only class that will fit into your schedule), always plan out your classes before you have to schedule them, and check Rate My Professor if you are worried about your professor, it's worth the time (trust me).
8. New Friends
Some of the greatest people you will meet, you will meet them in college. It took me a while to get comfortable enough to meet people, but when I did I met some of the greatest people ever. The best part is, I'm dating one, rooming with the other, one is a friend from high school, and the rest are like my family. I love them all so much, and I can't wait to see them this week! Freshmen, don't be afraid to get out there and meet people; leave your door open to meet people on your floor, talk to the person who sits next to you in class, whatever works for you!
9. New Experiences
College is the time to try new things, meet new people, and discover who you are. Don't be afraid to jump out of your comfort zone or try something new. You never know what surprise might be hiding around the corner.
10. Roommates
Whether you're rooming with a stranger, or you planned it out with one of your friends; this year is going to be great for you two. My roommate for this year is my best friend and I can't wait to see how our friendship grows and how much late night food we will order over the course of the semester. I love you Dyvinne, can't wait to live with you.
College can be scary, but also the best time of your life. Embrace life as it comes and don't be afraid of the choices you make. Penn State Altoona is you new home now (at least for the next two years) and it is what you make it, so as Hannah Montana would say, "Life's what you make it, so lets make it rock."
