Michael Boyle | Contributing Writer
Even a small campus such as Buena Vista University (BVU) can seem overwhelming for first-year students. When no faces are familiar, when you do not understand what “Hansen 8” is, and when you still have no idea why everything on campus has the name Siebens attached to it.
No worries. We have all been there, but do not let the unfamiliar territory stop you from taking advantage of what is in front of you! Those faces are there to help, you will soon know how to get to Hansen 8 (and the rest of campus), and the Siebens name, well, he just really liked the idea of donating to our school to help all of us succeed. With that in mind, here are 5 things I blew off my freshman year that I wish I wouldn’t have.
1) Studying in the Science Center
I ignored the people who said, “do not study in your room because you will not get anything done.” As it turns out, they were right. I found the Science Center my sophomore year, and it is a fantastic place. It may seem terrifying during that 8 a.m. class you have, but at 11 p.m., with the right music, it turns into a magical oasis. Even the nights spent studying until 4 a.m. are more fun than you would imagine, until you have to wake up 4 hours later.
2) Talking to professors
It turns out they are people too. Yes, they do control your grades, but that is all the more reason to get to know them! After spending my first couple of semesters hiding from professors while outside the classroom, I finally started walking into their offices. They expect it from you, so take a few minutes to get to know them. Not only does it make taking their classes more enjoyable, but a good reference from one of them might get you that internship or job you really want.
3) Getting to know Career Services
Career Services is not one of those offices reserved for upperclassmen. You need a good resumé, so let them help you get started right away. If you want a good summer job, they can help you with that too! The list doesn’t end there. Mock interviews, networking opportunities, and advice on future plans can all be found there from day one.
4) Going AWOL!
If you have not yet heard of AWOL, check it out here: (AWOL Link)
A week-long experience giving you the opportunity to meet new people, see new things, and join a worthwhile cause is the perfect combination. The applications for this year are long gone, but they will be back next fall, so jump on the AWOL train before it is too late. You will not regret it.
5) Campus Events
It’s a broad category, I know. It could include athletic events, band concerts, a unique ACES event, a play, intramural sports, and so much more. The important thing is for you to go! Even if you have never understood soccer, it might be fun to go watch a game with your friends. Maybe the art of a choir performance is lost on you, but find a few others to go and listen. I can promise you two things: you will survive the experience, and you might even enjoy it more than you thought.
Don’t be shy – it is there for the taking. Carpe Diem, Beavers.
Graphic by Aaron Burns
