In just a few weeks, OLÉ! weekend will begin, and your first chapter at USD will start. Emotions are at an all time high, for nothing is scarier than being forced to socialize with complete strangers. Don’t worry, though, the awkwardness will quickly blow over and you will feel at home in no time! San Diego is beautiful and filled with fun things to do with your new friends. If you would like to be ahead of the game and know a few things before you embark on your Torero journey, then check out these tips. I definitely wish I knew these things two years ago.

1. Abbreviations.

At USD, everyone abbreviates everything. Missions Cafe becomes Mish Caf and Public Safety is apparently P Safe. The buildings are referred to as their acronyms. In a couple months, you will be very familiar with the terms SLP, JCP and IPJ.

2. Food.

Your first trip to the SLP (basically the cafeteria on campus) can be a scary one. There are so many options! Trust me on this, and get the pasta. You won’t regret it.

3. Mission stairs.

Many of you freshmen will be living down in valley in either Missions A or B. The stairs up to campus from here can be rough. While it is healthier to walk up the stairs, there is an elevator in the nearby parking structure.

4. Baked Bear.

This create your own ice cream sandwich shop is a fun way to bond with your new friends! It’s located about 15 minutes away from campus in PB (Pacific Beach).

5. Mission Beach.

Many of you will spend your weekends walking along the beach from streets such as Jamaica or San Luis Rey. Just so you won’t get lost: the streets are lined up in alphabetical order. Also, to the left of the roller coaster is Sara’s which has the best California burritos. They taste better after midnight.

6. Coffee.

If you are a coffee drinker, then make sure to get your caffeine at Aromas. There just isn't something right about La Paloma’s coffee. Beware: it’s extremely easy to fall into the habit of drinking a daily iced white mocha.

7. Uber.

When you are going out, split the Uber with a few friends. If you are in a car with three other people, then it should only cost about four dollars to go to the beach.

8. Trolley.

The trolley can take you downtown or towards SDSU. On days where parking can be crazy, sometimes it’s easier to take the trolley. With only $5 at the round trip price, it can save you a lot of money and stress.

9. Harry Potter Room.

College is fun and all, but you are really here to study and earn your degree. In my opinion, the best place to study on campus is the “Harry Potter Room” located in Copley Library. It is quiet, has outlet, and only a five-minute walk from La Paloma in case you get hungry.

10. Tilt.

Last, but not least, you should download to app called Tilt. Many people have it, and it is used to organize events and collect money for a whole variety of fun events! For example, philanthropy activities and concert tickets.