The holiday buzz is behind us, and cold weather is in full swing, this signals the beginning of the spring semester. If you're an upperclassman at Marshall, you know what to expect, so you can read this and check the accuracy. But for those of you who don't here's a list of things to expect your first semester at Marshall.

1. Syllabus Readings, YAWN

Now, this is pretty standard at most colleges. You come in on the first day of class and your professor reads the syllabus and the policies that many are aware of. "Don't plagiarize" "attendance is mandatory," you know, the usual. At Marshall, this is no different, but it's still an important day to go, even if you don't want to.

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2. Flooding and Soggy Shoes

It's possible no one told you before you arrived at our lovely campus that we're called "Floodington" and for good reason. If you don't own a pair of rain boots, buy some immediately, they will be crucial to keeping your pants clean and your socks dry. This is the school supplies they don't tell you about.

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3. Squirrels, All the Squirrels

I know this is weird and not what you expected, but it's true. Do not be alarmed by the amount or the friendly nature of the squirrels around campus. They'll be in the trees, in the trash cans, in the bushes and everywhere in between. If you're brave you can buy nuts at the campus store and feed them. If you're not brave don't bother them and they won't bother you.

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4. Pedestrians Playing Frogger

If you drive, this one is for you. There are many people on campus, and sometimes they won't wait for you to have a red light to cross the street. It's like playing Frogger but in real life. If they see an opening there are those who will take it. Be vigilant, patient, and overall, be careful.

5. Long Lines

The Marshall Student Center is full of great places to eat, and this poses a problem. Around noon on a weekday, do not attempt to get lunch from the student center. All the lines will be incredibly long. It's not worth it, you're better off going to Towers (which is better than Harless in my opinion) and having a nice, relaxing, calm lunch. Trust me on this, or wait and go around two it will be much better.

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6. Green, so much Green

This will soon be your favorite color or you'll be tired of seeing it within a month. There is always a large number of people wearing green. That makes sense right? Of course, the students have school pride. This isn't limited to campus though, Huntington is filled with green. Get used to seeing it, and if you wear Marshall green out in public, be prepared for people to stop you and talk to you. This happened to me a couple times, and it will continue to happen so get ready to tell them your major, your class standing, and that you love Marshall. Maybe pass out business cards with the answers, that will be a time saver.

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Marshall is an amazing school, you'll grow to love it. Study hard, sleep harder, learn something, and experience new things. You're only in college for the first time once, be sure you enjoy it and take advantage of all Marshall has to offer. Good luck this semester!