Dear Incoming College Freshman,
Congratulations! You are stepping into a necessary and valuable season of change that will grow, excite, and challenge you. I am currently in my senior year, appreciative for my time at Dickinson State University. There are a few pieces of advice that I’d love to share to hopefully encourage you in this new journey!
Before heading off to college, spend some time thinking about the layout of your dorm room. If you are a guy reading this, it may not apply to you. But what helped me was picking out a theme and decorations that made me excited to move into this new space. When you arrive at your room, clean it, organize it, and do what you need to make it feel comfortable. As you are moving in, acknowledge the people around you. Go out of your way to say hi to people first. And remember to thank your parents or family/friends who are helping you move in.
The first weekend on campus is important. Here at DSU, our Campus and Activities Board does a wonderful job organizing countess events for you to attend and meet new people at. Go to everything you possibly can. In addition, the entire first month of school is titled “30 Days of Programming.” Each day of the month, there is an event or activity happening somewhere on campus. The early connections you will make at those events can turn into lasting friendships. All freshmen will attend the clubs and organizations fair, and I would challenge you to sign up for 1-2 clubs that interest you!
At some point, you may start to feel homesick. That is normal, and you have to allow yourself time to get acclimated to your new space. It does not mean you need to drop out and move home before the 2nd week of school is over. Give yourself grace- you are in a new place, with new people, different food, and your own schedule. Facetime the people you love often. One thing that made my entire college experience amazing was getting plugged in to a local church. I got to know local families who welcomed me in and I met all of my best friends at a college women’s bible study. I also was able to spend my time volunteering in the children’s ministry, which allowed me to take my eyes off my own life and focus on bringing joy to someone else. Whatever the community involvement looks like for you, find something meaningful to do off-campus from time to time.
You are exactly where you need to be! What you do in the next 4 years matters for your future. At the same time, it is only 4 years. Do not put too much pressure on yourself. Take it one day at a time and build consistent routines that bring you joy. Wishing you the very best as you begin this journey.
Sincerely,
Whitney Edwards ’25