In less than ten days, Baylor University will welcome the Class of 2021 as they start their freshman year. It's exciting to think about, but if you happen to be feeling apprehensive about this new chapter of your life, here are 21 things you should know, just in case.
1. Take a first day of school picture of yourself.
You'll appreciate it later on your first day of Senior year. It's the first picture of a new you!
2. Actually, bring school supplies with you...
Being prepared is one of the best things you can do as a college student!
3. ...but don't bring everything you bought from Target.
A couple of pens, a spiral or two, and your planner are guaranteed good to go. The scissors, three packs of paper, and stapler you got "just in case" should probably get comfortable on your desk pretty quick.
4. Have a picture of your schedule on your phone...
First day of school nerves can get to us all... for freshmen AND seniors.y of school nerves can get to us all... for freshmen AND seniors.
5. ... and Googling a campus map on your phone isn't a bad idea either.
It's better than carrying a paper one, just make sure to be aware of your surroundings!
6. Wear comfortable shoes.
Otherwise, the blisters on your feet will occupy way too much attention.
7. Take off the headphones.
It makes you more approachable. Trust me!
8. Go to class...
Obvious, I know, but make sure you get to class on time if you can! It gets harder with time!
9. ...and enjoy syllabus day — it only comes twice a year!
However, don't go in expecting each professor to discuss the syllabus for the whole class, or at all for that matter.
10. If you get the chance, visit Ms. Mei in Memorial Dining Hall and get a cookie.
You'll thank me later for this one. Promise.
11. Accept the fact that this is Texas, so save the winter clothes for later.
Nike shorts and t-shirts will be your go to for the majority of the year.
12. I probably don't suggest wearing a high school T-shirt...
Again — just trust me.
13. ...but I ultimately recommend you wearing whatever makes you comfortable.
Baylor is your home now, so you get to wear what you want.
14. Introduce yourself to the people sitting next to you.
No worries if y'all don't hit it off, but at least you can say you tried.
15. Understand and embrace any awkward situations.
If you feel like all you're doing is getting in people's ways and bumping into them, don't dwell on it! Odds are, it won't be the last time.
16. Don't worry if you got a bad seat in class; the second day is when it really matters.
Now's the time to scope out the seat you really want.
17. Remind yourself that it's only the first day.
Sure, it's important, but when finals come around, you'll hardly remember it.
18. You might not meet your squad on day one...
You'll find your people eventually, so don't worry if every friend you make is "the one."
19. ... so it's OK if you have meals by yourself.
Everyone's had plenty of them. Take the "me time" as a gift!
20. Call your family.
They want to know about your day! And it helps solidify that the day actually happened in your mind.
21. Smile, it'll be OK!
There is no standard that makes the first day of college great, but if you try hard and remember why you're there, and I promise things will be fine!