Fresh-meat. Fishes. Newbies.

What do all these things have in common?

They’re all names for the newest members of our campus: Freshmen.

At some point, everyone has gone through the dreaded freshmen phase. Some of our students are living away from home for the first time, completely new to the world of high-pressured academics, and trying not to forget where their classes are. Others may be wondering how they’ll meet new people and enjoy new experiences (Stage West, anyone?).

Here are some tips to save freshmen some trouble:

Parking Pains: Now this may not apply to all freshmen, but I think it’s important to note that one of the most complained about topics at Midwestern State is parking. Many say that we don’t have enough parking for our student body. Whatever the case may be, if you live off campus, get here early! You don’t want to have to park across the street and play human Frogger to get to class, do you?

You’re Not Ferris Bueller, so Don’t Take the Day Off: As freshmen, you may think that you can skip class and it won’t affect your grades. WRONG! It’s important to understand that if you go to class and do well, you won’t have to pay money to retake it. Don’t be that person that realizes that you have a higher attendance rate at Denim and Diamonds thanyour class.

It Takes a Village to Raise a Freshman: Get involved in different campus organizations! College is all about experiencing new and exciting things that you may have never been exposed to before. Don’t just sit back and let the best four years of your life go by without being involved. Join a Greek organization, a scholastic/honor club, intramural sports, or a group dedicated to hobbies. There’s a lot to do on campus once you look!

That Awkward Moment When: Do not—I repeat, do not—be that person that walks into class 20 minutes late. Not only do you disrupt the professor’s lecture, but you distract your fellow students as well. Be considerate and try to get to class on time.

Oh Em Gee, LOL!: Understand the basic rules of classroom etiquette and put your phone away and on silent. This is going back to the whole ‘considerate’ thing I just talked about. You don’t know how many times I’ve been in class when someone’s phone starts blaring the latest Justin Bieber song. Trust me, you do not want to see the look on the professor’s face (hint: it’s terrifying).

Study Buddy: The most useful thing I was told when I was a freshman was to talk to your fellow classmates and get to know them. Not only is it friendly, but by getting to know those around you in your class, you can create a study-buddy system. Plus, should you miss class, you can copy the notes from them.

Open Your Mind: University life is a whole different realm than high school, and brings with it many different opinions and beliefs. Keep your mind open to new ideas, and don’t just brush someone else’s ideas off. You could learn a thing or two.

Time Keeps on Slipping, Slipping: Time management is a key skill in college. You’ve got a five page paper due on the same day as a presentation for another class? Start one early. I know that it’s easy to wait until the night before, but don’t add that unnecessary stress on yourself.

It’s Not Hard with your Library Card!: Take advantage of the facilities on campus! The library is the perfect place to go when you have to study for that big test, or even just to read over a chapter for your discussion group. You can even use the computer labs to write that paper you’ve been stalling (I told you not to!). Don’t forget to use the Clark Student Center, too!

We are Young: Lastly—and most importantly—go out and have fun! You can’t be serious all the time. YOLO, right?