Virginia Tech is a huge school. And by that I mean HUGE – the total undergraduate enrollment is around 24,000 students, and the campus spans 2,600 acres. Walking onto a campus this size for the first time can be overwhelming…so how do you adjust? Here are 10 easy things you can do to feel more comfortable and confident at Tech.
Make a GobblerConnect account! It makes “getting involved” much easier, since you have access to info on 915 different on-campus organizations. If you see something that sticks out to you, you can even express your interest in joining online! By joining a group that shares a similar passion, you can find common ground with others and feel more in your element. Or, try something totally new and step outside your comfort zone. The overall benefit to joining any organization…you’ll make new friends that are going to make this transition to college so much easier.
Yes, we know. You spent a lot of time decorating your room so it’s nothing short of perfect, but there are many memories to make outside of your dorm building. Even if you don’t join any clubs or organizations, chill out on the Drillfield or check out downtown Blacksburg! The southern hospitality, nightlife and amazing restaurants will make you feel right at home in no time.
You will definitely feel homesick at some point during your freshman year. One way to feel more comfortable is to keep in touch with your parents and friends at home regularly, but not too often! It is easy to become a hermit when you text your hometown friends 24/7. Instead, give them updates on your week through Facebook, text, or the occasional call. But for the most part, be present and work on building your new relationships.
The academic rigor of college is far beyond that of high school. Yes, you may only take 4-5 classes each semester (12-15 credit hours), but the general rule of thumb: for each hour of class you have, study for two hours. You’re not going to be led through any year of college by your professors, and you need to take matters into your own hands. If organization is really tough for you, make it cute! There are tons of studyblrs (study + Tumblr) out there with awesome tips and examples of schedule books.
The BT (Blacksburg Transit) will get you to, from, and around campus for free. Download the app to see when the bus is going to stop and where, if there are any delays, and any other alerts related to the transit system.
There are tons of ways to show your Hokie pride. You can buy merchandise from the bookstore (everyone looks good in maroon and orange!), check out a football game, or scream it from the mountaintops!…or anywhere around campus. When you hear someone say “What’s a Hokie?”, the only appropriate response is “I am!”
Virginia Tech is a wonderfully friendly campus – so if you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask! Whether it’s a student or a faculty member, you’ll find plenty of people who are more than willing to answer any questions you may have.
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