Top 10 Tips for Freshmen: The Westminster Family Weighs In
New students moved into the Quad, rocked the Hill, charged their Digital Blue iPads, and rushed to their first classes this week. In this blur of activity, Westminster College recognizes that the first few weeks of college can sometimes be overwhelming for freshmen. Learn what our Westminster family says about adjusting to life at WestMO:
“Study in the library.” ‒ David McCreery, ’72 ΣΧ
“I have very fond memories of hiding out in study carrels and my favorite chair in the hallway between the library and Hazel Wing. It felt like exactly what I had imagined college to be.” ‒ Mary Poletti-Lappe, ’06 ΔΔΔ
“Go Greek! Even if you don’t think it’s for you, it’s an awesome opportunity to meet and connect with other new students and upperclassmen. Also, don’t forget to call your mamas every now and then, and you’ll need more command strips than you think you will.” ‒ Korry Burr, ’21 ΑΓΔ
“Use all of your Blue Jay Bucks before the end of the year!” ‒ Muhle Dlamini, ’15 ΚΑ
“Stock up on all the usual over-the-counter meds. I recommend a BIG bottle of ibuprofen. You will get sick with something, and you won’t want to have to go get Nyquil or whatever. Also, get a cheap first-aid kit with Band-Aids and a thermometer. You will be glad you have it when you need it.” ‒ Hope Eaton, ‘04
“Take as many opportunities as possible and do your best to get involved! Westminster’s small campus provides so much to be learned and explored. Just put yourself out there! ‒ Kayla Bunch, ’21 ΚΚΓ
“Go to classes, communicate with your professors, and ask for help when you need it! One of the perks of a small college is getting to know your professors and being able to get one-on-one help when you need it. ‒ Connar Hadley, ’21 ΚΑΘ
“Upperclassmen are some of your best resources. Use that to your benefit. They have been in your shoes before and can likely help you through those rough times.” ‒ John Martin, ’19 ΣΑΕ
“Take advantage of the new-found independence and learn things you don’t already know: how to cook, how to deep-clean things, how to sew hems and buttons on, how to fix a flat tire and check your oil, how to manage a budget, and how to understand credit card debt. If your parents are willing to do some of this for you, don’t let them. YouTube and friends who can already do some of this are great resources. Also, always take advantage of networking opportunities. You never know who you’ll talk to that might offer you a job or introduce you to someone who will offer you a job.” ‒ Marissa (Tyler) Denehy, ’08 ΚΑΘ
“Have fun but remember that the grades you get your first semester and year are the most important, as they set the bar for the rest of your college grades.” ‒ Thomas Boreman ’15 ΣΑΕ
