Camels voraciously eating mozzarella sticks.
Got the new kid jitters? It’s okay. We’ve all been there. Just a year ago, I was in your position. A little scared, a lot excited and as usual with me, pretty confused. Here are a few tips I’ve compiled to help you on the beginning of your journey at Conn. Enjoy and be merry, my friends. College is a wonderful time filled with wonderful people and wonderful experiences. If you haven’t heard, it’s wonderful. (Most of the time. Just watch out for the vicious skunks.)
1. Even though that strange period called “orientation” was a few weeks ago, you might still be overwhelmed by all the new people you’re encountering. I know you were bombarded with hundreds of introductions and you might feel like you have too many new acquaintances. Be assured that no matter how weird you are, you will find people who are equally weird. You will bond over weird things and form your own group of weird friends. I know this from experience.
2. Floralia will be the best day of your life. Get excited because you only have 236 days left until the best day of your life.
3. See a show. See lots of shows. This campus is full of really awesome and talented students who put on great productions—plays, musicals, dance performances, improv comedy, a cappella concerts, bands, art exhibits, poetry slams and more. Some are free, some cost money, but trust me, whatever you go to, you won’t be sorry.
4. Join a club. I know you’ve heard this a thousand times, but seriously, do it. It’s a great way to make friends and to find out what you’re interested in. Even if you think you already know exactly what you want to do here, you might be surprised to find something new that really sparks your interest. Know that you are always welcome at the Voice.
5. Join the Voice! We’d love to have you, especially if you’re awesome. We really like awesome people. Also, we have (had—don’t ask; tragic story) a white board signed by Sleigh Bells and the comfiest couch on the entire campus. And snacks. We always have snacks. And great music. These are all credible reasons to join.
6. Check out the ridiculously themed Cro dances. Even if you don’t dance, you will in college. (If what occurs on the dance floor can actually be considered dancing. It’s debatable.) Regardless, they’re fun, they’re funny and you’ll work off calories. Trust me.
7. Hang a whiteboard on your door. It’s a great way to communicate with friends and leave secret messages like, “Hey, roomie. I locked myself out again. Can you call me back when you read this? I really need my phone. Oh crap,” or “HIIIIII ILOVEYOU (YOURTHEBEST).” You see a lot of those messages on Sunday mornings. Just sayin’.
8. Make friends with your professors. (Some of them at least.) A crucial part of college is having a mentor (or multiple mentors)-professors you can turn to for help, advice or a friendly conversation. If you’re lucky, your freshman seminar class will get invited to your professor’s apartment for pizza and casual conversation about Gossip Girl.
9. Try the mozzarella sticks at Cro…unless you’re a vegan. If that’s the case, I’m so sorry. But if you like things deep-fried or with cheese, they’re quite delicious. Our own EIC didn’t believe me until she tried them the last week of school. I received a text that read, “YOU JUST CHANGED MY LIFE.” That’s right. They’re life-changing. And you’re welcome, Jaz.
10. Tired of studying in the library or overwhelmed by staring at shelves and shelves of books? Here are some alternative places to study: Coffee Grounds, Oasis, common rooms and the second floor of Cro. The atmosphere in each is different, so try them all out and see which one works for you. Note, however, that Coffee Grounds is only for hipsters and those with a love of chai.
11. Get off campus once in a while. While the bubble of Connecticut College can be comforting, it can sometimes be a little suffocating. When you start to feel restless, expand your horizons. Use the Camel Van, a car, a bike, a Razor Scooter, rollerblades or a hovercraft and explore New London, Mystic or anywhere else your heart desires. Sometimes it’s nice to remember that a world exists outside of college.
I’m sure there’s plenty more I could tell you, but I’m running out of space. To sum it up, just be active, be involved and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re all friendly here. Except for our mascot, but that’s another story entirely. •
