With the start of college just around the corner, we know that for new students at Baylor, life can feel a little crazy, even overwhelming, right now.
So Baylor Social Media Polled The Baylor Family on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook – What’s the best advice you can give freshmen as they prepare to come to BU?
More than 500 students and friends responded across all three platforms, sharing their thoughts on #BU26. Here are 10 of our favorite words of wisdom and encouragement, in no particular order:
1. SAY YES. “Do the welcome week activities even if you are an introvert. If true, especially if you are an introvert. It is essential to build relationships. Home sickness will come and those relationships will make it so much easier.”
2. CONNECT WITH PROFESSORS. “Go!! you!! office!! hours!! So helpful for getting to know your professors (and the content) better!” Also, “Get to class early, sit in the front row, and meet the professor.”
3. SAY HELLO. “It’s worth knowing. Let people come in and rate their friendships.” Also, “You will find your group of people! Just keep saying yes!” and “Say hello to the people around you – often they’re just as nervous and excited to be here as you are!”
4. STAY CONNECTED. “Call your parents!! Set a time and day for a weekly check-in with each other.”
5. FIND A CHURCH. “Find a home in the church! There are many wonderful churches in the Waco area.”
6. ASK FOR HELP. “Use the Baylor University Counseling Center (BUCC)! College can be scary and stressful – make sure you take care of yourself.”
7. HAVE AN OPEN MIND. “Meet people who are different, from another country, from another ethnicity, from another part of the country. These four years are all about growth; keep an open mind and you will really expand your horizons. Take advantage of all the free cultural events offered around campus – lectures, music programs and performances. This is the time to let your interests guide you.”
8. SET LINE. “Don’t fall while running the Baylor line!”
9. IT’S OKAY TO CHANGE YOUR MIND. “The degree you start your first year with should not be the one you graduate with. I changed majors three times but still graduated on time thanks to Maymesters and summer school. Side note: Take advantage of Maymester! They are great and Waco summers can be great.”
10. Immerse yourself. Learn about the history of Baylor and its founders. Learn and sing the alma mater. Attend Dr Pepper Hour and other events such as sports and concerts at the School of Music. Walk through the ‘old’ part of the campus and enjoy its beauty. Stop and listen as Pat Neff’s carillon plays a song. Eat in the cafeteria. Appreciate every moment!”
So #BU26!
