Smart Track™ Toolkit

Tips to Keep in Mind during Freshman Orientation

Over here at the Smart Track™ Toolkit we understand how nerve racking it can be to attend freshman orientation having no idea what to expect and seeing no familiar faces in the crowd.  However, freshman orientation is a great way to meet fellow classmates and is the first step towards becoming part of your college’s community.  The following are a few tips we share with our seniors, as they get ready for orientation.

1. Familiarize yourself with the campus and with other students.  This is a perfect opportunity for you to get to know other students and to familiarize yourself with the campus.  Not only will you meet other freshmen, but you will be able to introduce yourself to upperclassmen orientation leaders and faculty members.  This is a great way to network and to get advice from students who have already experienced college for a couple years.  Also, make sure to familiarize yourself with the campus.  Know your surroundings; this way, you can have an idea of what buildings classes are held in, where the cafeteria is and where freshman housing is located, before the upperclassmen move in and things become more hectic.
2. Don’t miss your placement exams or registration time!  Be sure to follow the agenda given to you by your orientation leader.  You don’t want to miss a placement exam, as finding a time to reschedule can be difficult with all the other summer activities taking place.  You don’t want to start off the year on the wrong foot by being placed in a class that is either too easy or too hard.  Also, make sure to meet with an advisor before your scheduled registration time.  They will help you choose a course load that is most beneficial to you, and geared towards your interests.  Again, don’t miss your registration time or the classes of your choice may be closed.
3. Don’t forget a sleeping bag or bedding for overnights!  When preparing for freshman orientation, don’t forget bedding.  You don’t want to be the one stuck sleeping on an old, twin mattress for a couple nights, so pack accordingly.
4. Have Fun!  Make the most out of your freshman orientation experience.  Bring a deck of cards or an iHome with you.  This way, you can hang out and have fun with other students in your down time.

Remember, all freshmen are in the same boat.  No one knows anyone else, so don’t be shy.  Introduce yourself to as many people as possible.  This is a great way to meet other freshmen before move in day.  Keep in mind that you may just find your future roommate and close group of friends!

About the author: Alecia Coleman is currently a senior at Bentley University.  She is majoring in Accountancy and minoring in Law.  She was recently a recipient of the MSCPA Women’s in Accounting Scholarship and intends to get her Master’s in Accountancy at Bentley University, as well.

About Smart Track™ Toolkit: The toolkit is a web based service that assists families with everything from admissions and test prep, to student athletics and financial aid. Our intuitive software and on-demand workshops are key components to making sure students find their top choice colleges, and families can afford to send them there.