It's that time of year. Bethel students have moved out for the summer, and the incoming freshman class is about to graduate. Congratulations are due all around. Bethel University Class of 2020, this one is for you guys. I asked members of the class of 2019 for their best advice to incoming freshman, and they delivered. Here are 13 tips, tricks, and words of wisdom, paraphrased for brevity and commented upon by yours truly.
1. "Stock up on bananas from the DC" - Nicholas Lee
Bananas are a healthy, simple snack, and they are the easiest of all of the DC foods to sneak past Sodexo Bob (pictured above).
2. "Get a planner (and use it)" - Alissa Monroe
"They can be life changing." Write anything and everything in your planner. Homework, to-do lists, goals for the week and semester, Bible verses...literally anything. If you use it to its fullest potential, it will be your lifeline.
3. "Remember to journal as often as you can" - Sydney Parkinson
I can vouch for this. It is so easy to forget little moments that meant a lot to you at the time, and at the end of the year, I am really wishing I had spent more time journaling those experiences.
4. "Make use of the Heritage pool at least once" - Sophie Wilson
Having a pool on campus is such a privilege. Try to make your way over for a swim every now and then for some relaxation.
5. "Don't stress if you don't find a boyfriend or girlfriend" - Becca Przetycki
It may be cliche, but college is for finding your bridesmaids, not your husband (especially freshman year).
6. "Be careful in the DC. You could end up stuck on the toilet for a while" - Elena Matta
7. "Don't be afraid to be weird. Eventually, people will join you" - Molly Dreblow
8. "Go to chapel and Vespers on a regular basis" - Nicholas Lee
9. "Don't plan out your year; chances are, things will change" - Alyssa Knight & Sophie Anderson
Things almost never go according to plan, and college is no different. If you go into your freshman year expecting a roller coaster, you'll be less stressed in general.
10. "Develop a good relationship with your adviser" - Sophie Wilson
11. "Focus on building relationships with your floormates" - Nicholas Lee
Seriously. You live with these people, get ready in the same bathrooms, and do floor events with them. Intentional relationships will make the strangers you meet during Welcome Week your family.
12. "It might take time for things to get where you want them to be" - Sophie Anderson
You might not find the perfect major, friend group, or even study spot right away. Don't sweat it. Things always work themselves out in the end.
13. "Experience everything you can" - Sophie Wilson
Freshman year will change you, but you have to let it happen. Take a step out of your comfort zone and say yes to things you might not normally say yes to. It will make you grow in so many ways.
So there it is. The best advice from last year's freshman class. We can't wait to welcome you guys onto campus!
