What I Wish I Knew Before TCNJ Orientation

College orientation can make you nervous if you don’t know what to expect. So, here are things I wish I knew before TCNJ Orientation to prepare myself.

1. Listen to the ambassadors and instructors.

They tell you what you need to know about the general use of PAWS.

2. Get excited!

TCNJ orientation is your first time meeting and seeing some of the people in your major/school. Try to keep in touch in case you’re in the same class sections.

3. There will be silly games.

The ambassadors play a lot of ice breakers, which will kill you during welcome week. But for now, bear through it and have fun!

4. Don’t expect to remember everyone.

There’ll be people who you’ll meet and never see again, and there may be people you’re in every class with. Don’t fret if you don’t remember a name or two.

5. You won’t necessarily meet your new best friend.

Time at orientation is limited, and a lot of people will eat or chat with people they know from high school. You will only have an hour or two during orientation to just chill, so it’s pretty unlikely you’ll make any life long friends immediately. That’s not to say you should be mean or rude!

6. Expect to get vital information.

The ambassadors will tell you major-specific information and are equipped to answer all questions you may have.

7. Come with questions.

Check out PAWs before orientation at TCNJ. Don’t know how to use it? Ask. Ask alumni or current students about their TCNJ experience. Some good questions are about dorms, scheduling, food, and professors.

8. Bring the crucial items.

Some suggested items include a light jacket (to be comfortable in the air conditioning), a notepad and pen, sunscreen (some ambassadors do activities outdoors if weather permits), and sunglasses.

9. It’s okay to get lost.

If this is your first time on campus, you may get lost finding the parking lot for orientation, or meeting up with your group. Don’t worry; ambassadors are everywhere in their polos and striped shirts!