Cornerstone University Freshmen Guide

It's the fall again, and that means it's time to go back to school. The only difference is that now you're in college, so it's not as bad as it used to be - it can actually be quite exciting. If you're going to Cornerstone University, though, you'll want to check this article out so you'll be prepared for a great year, the moment you step on campus.

Cornerstone will be asking you to come on a Saturday, preferably with your family, for an orientation. The entire day can be stressful, because for many of you it may be the last time you see your parents, but don't let it overwhelm you. It's there to help, so try your best to enjoy it, and most importantly: make the most of your family time while you still have a chance.

The whole weekend will be busy, but it's fun, so do as much as you can. At one point there will be a video scavenger hunt, where freshmen are paired up in groups and travel around the downtown area. This is highly recommended, and a great way to meet new people. Also, on Saturday night there will be a miniature fair on campus, with cool things to do, so look into that as well. Most importantly, DON'T FORGET TO ATTENTD SNOC at 7:17pm on Sunday night. Don't ask why it is at that time, but it is the best thing you will see all year, and it only comes around once. You don't have any homework to be behind on at this point, so put everything aside and SEE THIS.

Before the weekend is over, say goodbye to your family. The administration, advises against this, but what do they know? They can be helpful, but their not freshmen: you are. You going to miss your family, so if that means spending most of the weekend with them and not on campus (assuming this is after you have already move your stuff in), do it. You get a whole school year to get acquainted to the school, but not much time left with your family.

Your first week there will be an adjustment, but as long as you are prepared for it with a positive outlook you will do just fine. I suggest that you find one or two people to hangout with for the first weekend/week so you don't have to figure out the college by yourself, but it's important to branch out. So after the initial impact, start to sit at different tables, and get to know more and more people, until you have an idea for the flow of the campus, and who your friends are. Show up to classes early - at least the first time, after that you can be on-time - so you relieve yourself of some pressure. The teachers expect a lot more than in high school, but this is not Harvard. The one teacher to look out for as a freshmen, goes by "Doc Carroll." He is a great guy, who is enthusiastic and wants you to get the most out of your education. Approach his class prepared to work, especially to take notes (and read outside of class), but be positive - you'll find he is a great guy. The later can be said about all of the teachers, as they all care for students very much.

Some dorm advice: be there. Be there by curfew, and be there before curfew. Meaning, you're in college now and will feel more independent, but don't forget you're dormmates. They want to get to know you, so make friends there. Talk to your RA and/or RD. There great people. Don't be there 24/7 of course, as you should branch out, but save time to get to know the people in your dorms.

Here is some final general advice: GET SLEEP. It's easy to stay up until 3am in the morning, and you'll find yourself doing it once in a while - which is fine occasionally - but it wears you down in the long term, and will make the semesters horrible towards the end. Just sleep, be consistent, and do whatever you can in the time that your awake. Other may not do this, but you're not them. It's important to get sleep at college. It might help to get a fan, so that you can block out other noises.

Finally, don't be afraid to talk to someone if you need help or are struggling. RA/RD's are meant for this. Have a good you, and enjoy your new life!