Dear incoming URI freshmen,
I bet you're probably bugging out just reading this if you will be coming to URI in the fall. This summer is the last time in your life where everything will be the same. The second you come to Rhode Island, honey, it's all changing. Even if you're from Rhode Island, it's still all about to change for you. As a current freshmen who will be going into my sophomore year in the fall- let me just say I'm hyped as hell for the fall. I already want to fast forward through this summer and I haven't even had finals yet. I should probably slow down. Let's prepare you all for URI.
So, let's pretend it's move-in day. This might be the most annoyingly stressful and sweaty day for you and your family. You see people you've never seen before and you don't know whether or not to cry or scream. We all felt that way. You'll have friends by the end of the day, however those might not even be your closest friends. Sometimes you won't find your best friends until a little later or maybe you'll be lucky and be best friends with your roommate. Either way, the awkwardness of not knowing anyone will disappear.
The first time you go to the dining halls is quite the experience. You have no clue where to sit in Butterfield and you won't understand the times and the weekend schedule. How many swipes you have/how to use them will also confuse your tiny freshman soul. You'll also learn what butt-cream is and butt-nugs. Sounds weird but is oddly satisfying. You'll end up ordering calzones all the time so just prepare for the freshmen 15. You'll also eat a lot of ramen which isn't always a bad thing.
Be prepared for the weirdest weather. You'll be freezing on your walk to class, and then immediately start sweating once you enter a building. Lovely. It's impossible not to be out of breath after walking up the damn hill everyday. It's a workout every time you walk to class. Maybe don't prepare for the freshmen 15.
Greek life is super big here. I personally recommend rushing to everyone in the fall especially if you want to make a lot of friends. You'll make friends who will end up in different sororities during rush which is super nice. But, not everyone rushes and still seems to be having the time of their lives so don't stress.
Definitely find a friend with a car. You'll need to get off campus to get food sometimes or just go to the beach. Bring your car and you'll have a ton of friends. Most popular kid in your hall probably.
URI is 100% different than most schools and that is why we love to hate on it. In reality, I can't imagine going anywhere else and I can't wait for next semester already.
Good-luck!
