I love my school more than words can even express. Arcadia has truly become my home away from home! As move in day and the start of my junior year draw closer and closer, I wanted to give the incoming class some things they can do at Arcadia to start off their college experience right! Without further ado, here you go!

1. Make the most of orientation!

Orientation is my favorite time of year! I loved it so much my first year that I am going into my second year of being an orientation leader. Orientation is such an important time new students because it introduces them to the resources we have available on campus as well as introducing them to some of their peers! It's 5 days filled with fun and I encourage all of the new students to make the most of it!

2. Go to Midnight Bingo!

Midnight Bingo is an Arcadia tradition. Every month, eager Knights gather in the Great Room to try their luck at winning awesome prizes. From TVs to vacuums to blenders to tablets, Midnight Bingo truly has it all. You aren't an Arcadia Knight until you've been genuinely upset with someone because they won the prize you wanted.

3. Attend our annual Activities Fair!

At the beginning of every fall and spring semester, the office of Engagement and Student Programs host an Activities Fair where new students can see what clubs and groups Arcadia has to offer. We have over 50 active clubs and organizations such as religious groups, major-related clubs, and anything else you could think of! If you want to see a full list of campus organizations, click here! Getting involved on campus is one of the best ways to start your Arcadia experience off right!

4. Support on-campus events!

Whether you're interested in sports, music, comedy, theater, or magic, Arcadia has something for you! Along with events put on by the university, clubs and organizations also hold events! There is always something to do!

5. Explore Philadelphia!

Glenside, the Pennsylvania town that is home to Arcadia University, has a train station that is a 10-15 minute walk from campus. This train provides direct transportation into Center City Philadelphia which is home to some pretty amazing stuff! In my time at Arcadia, I have roamed the city with friends, seen comedy shows and musicals, tried some awesome food, and found some hidden gems not everyone knows about. I have found a new appreciation for the city of Brotherly Love during my time at AU and I hope new students take advantage of our proximity to Philadelphia.

6. Find a work study job on campus!

This next tip might seem a little boring, but I can guarantee you won't regret it! My work study job at the Community and Civic Engagement Center has been of the most enriching parts of my Arcadia experience. My boss, Cindy Rubino, and my co-workers who feel more like family now have all taught me so much and I wouldn't change a thing. Finding a job like this, surrounded by people who care about me and want to see me succeed, has made my experience all the better!

7. Try new things!

Now this might sound a little stereotypical, but hear me out. Going outside of your comfort zone is probably how I got to where I am today in terms of who I am. All of the leadership positions I have had during my time here have truly helped me come out of my shell and come into my own at Arcadia. These experiences can be defining moments that help you see where you want your life to go! In short, get out there and see what Arcadia has to offer and see where it takes you!

8. Meet new people!

I can honestly say that some of my closest friends have been made at Arcadia. There are so many amazing people that have come into my life through various leadership positions and clubs that I have been involved with. Going out there and meeting new people can be scary and intimidating, believe me I know, but you won't regret it! Arcadia is filled with wonderful people who want to see you succeed and that means the world to me.

And there you have it! By doing these things, I can guarantee you will start your Arcadia experience off right! College is such an exciting time; be sure to take advantage of every minute of it. To all of the incoming students, I hope your Arcadia experience is everything you want it to be and more! Welcome to Arcadia University!