First week of school: College advice for new freshmen

Thursday, August 29, 2024

Media Contact: Jeff Hopper | Communications and Media Relations Manager | 405-744-5827 | jeff.hopper@okstate.edu

As a freshman on a college campus, starting the first week can be overwhelming. So many new people and faces can make it difficult to find friends and get involved.

To help new students out in their first college semester, a few returning Oklahoma State University students gave some advice on how to make the most of one’s college career.

“Stick your neck out because you have no idea what might happen,” said Hayden McKinney, an electrical engineering technology student.

College provides the opportunity for new students to experiment with different interests and hobbies. Student-led clubs, campus events and organizations are open to any OSU student who is interested. Along with these, each college also hosts its own events and clubs that are open for students in those majors to attend.

A great way to find out what’s happening on campus is by reading bulletin boards throughout the buildings. McKinney uses them to find tutors to help him in his more advanced math and science classes. Many bulletin boards also include career-building tools such as resume building, interview tips and upcoming career fairs. Students can find any information about organizations and clubs on Oklahoma State CampusLink. This website includes any sign-up sheets that might need to be filled out before attending a meeting. It’s a helpful tool to keep up to date on all OSU extracurricular activities.

Levi Nelson, a finance and accounting major, had more advice. He came into college thinking he would be studying agriculture economics. Nelson was raised in agriculture his whole life and assumed when he went to college, he would continue in that direction.

“I got here and realized it's not really what I want to do,’’ Nelson said. “Switching majors is OK. I love agriculture, but it’s not how I want to make money.”

Many college students change their minds once they step on campus. Taking different courses and getting involved in other activities broadens their mind to other career choices. It’s common for students to change majors throughout their college career.

OSU encourages freshmen to connect and engage with people, events and clubs on campus. Joining any club or group gives students the support and confidence they need to succeed in college. 

Story By: Darby Rains | darby.rains@okstate.edu