To the future freshmen of Ole Miss,
First and foremost, congratulations on choosing the best college! I know you will love it as much as I do. At first, I was a bit skeptical of moving down south while knowing absolutely no one, but it turned out to be one of my best decisions. For those of you who are as nervous as I was, here are a few tips:)
1. Don't be afraid to make friends and go out of your comfort zone.
On my second day of classes, I went to up to this girl who I recognized from orientation. I knew she was a freshmen and also from St. Louis and I just wanted a friend to sit by. Flash forward 8 months later and we are best friends and currently have every single class together. I don't know if I would have been able to survive my freshmen year without her. Don't be afraid to go up to someone on the first day of class. Who knows they might become one of your best friends.
2. Get involved.
Make sure to go to the activity fair even if it sounds a bit lame. It is good to keep busy for the first few months to avoid getting bored or homesick. Also, you can meet a lot of cool people and join so many different organizations that are offered! Consider joining Rebelthon, it was one of my favorite events of freshmen year!
3. Consider rushing even if you do not want to.
I was super nervous about Greek life down in the South especially since I am from out of state. But, I am so happy I rushed and found a home at an amazing sorority. Some of the people I have met through my sorority have become some of my closest friends.
4. Complete the Freshman Bucket List.
Eat chicken on a stick, go in the tunnels, and if you aren't too afraid- sneak onto the football field.
5. Keep your dorm room clean.
Trust me you do not want a smelly dorm room or ants.
6. Take a lot of pictures.
Please capture your outfits for spring parties because in about 10 years you are going to ask yourself why on earth did you wear that. Also, snap a few pictures of the beautiful red tulips.
7. Tailgate in the Grove.
One of my favorite things about the fall semester was football games. Even if you don't know anyone who has a tent, plenty of families will welcome you into their tent. After tailgating, make sure to head to the stadium for Locking the Vaught (and maybe try to stay for at least 1 whole game).
8. Stay connected with your friends over Christmas Break.
Honestly leaving for Christmas break was one of the hardest things. I'm pretty sure my friends and I all cried because we didn't want to be apart for 6 weeks. Make sure to Facetime them a lot:)
9. Study hard.
College is a lot harder than high school. Study and stay on top of your homework. You do not want to get behind in a class.
10. Have fun and make memories.
There is nothing like freshman year, so make the most of it.
