By: Ella Cobb

If you feel like college has been a much harder transition than expected, you are not alone. A lot of people do not love their freshmen year. It is a big life change that can be difficult to navigate. Don’t worry; we are here to help you love this new stage in your life. Let’s talk about tips for making MTSU your own! 

Tip #1: Create a good routine 

Personally, I love a routine. Once I get into a good routine, my life runs so much smoother. I highly recommend finding a schedule that works for you. 

Try to go to sleep and wake up around the same time every day. It can be hard to keep a good, consistent sleep schedule. It is recommended that adults sleep 7-9 hours a night for their physical, mental, and emotional health.

Many of the tips I share in this piece will be great activities to work into your daily or weekly routine. 

Tip #2: Join a club or organization

Life is so much easier once you find your people. The best way to find people with similar interests and goals is to join an organization. MTSU has over 250 student organizations. You can always join clubs and honor societies related to your major or department. 

If you think of any common hobby, we probably already have a group for it. If we don’t, you only need five students and a faculty advisor to make your own officially. 

If you are looking to learn about campus life and involvement, you should visit the third floor of the Student Union. There you will find the Center of Student Involvement and Leadership (CSIL). They know all the good things about student organizations and campus life. 

Tip #3: Explore Murfreesboro and Middle Tennessee

It is important to get out and explore your new city if possible. Murfreesboro has much to offer, and we aren’t far from Nashville. I recommend you visit the Murfreesboro Town Square, the local farmer’s market, and see what is here for you to enjoy. Live music is also really popular in Middle Tennessee. There are also some great hiking and outdoor areas nearby. We want you to feel connected to your new community. 

Tip #4: Try intramural or club sports

You can also play intramural or club sports. If you have never picked up a ball, you can play intramural with some friends for fun. If you are more of an athlete, club sports may be for you. You will play on a team against other universities. Get involved! We want you to find your people!

Tip #5: Build relationships and stay connected

Human connection is important. Introduce yourself to professors, advisors, administrators, students, and more. You never know what connection you make could land you a job, internship, recommendation, or friendship. Also, when you get to know a professor, they are more likely to help you later if you need it. Go to office hours and introduce yourself. Try to put yourself out there!

Tip #6: Stay active

Regular body movement helps with brain clarity, focus, and overall physical, emotional, and mental health. Our Health, Wellness, and Recreation Center has a wonderful facility with a lot of options to choose from. 

There is a fitness room with weights, a cardio room, a functional fitness room, an aerobic room, indoor soccer, indoor and outdoor pools, and more. You can also take fitness classes like Pilates, yoga, and cycling there. 

If you don’t like any of that, just try going on walks.

Tip #7: Don’t forget to eat

Sometimes, life gets away from us, and we forget to care for ourselves. Make sure you are prioritizing eating. Our schedules are crazy, but we still need food to fuel our bodies and minds. MT Dining has a dietitian on staff if you are ever worried about how to eat safely on campus or want to know more about our food options. 

Tip #8: It’s okay to ask for help!

Some people find it hard to ask for help. I am here to tell you that you are not alone. Most of us struggle in one way or another. Learn to ask for help when you need it. If you are confused about something in class, email your professor (in a professional-sounding email). If you need more help than they can give, go to tutoring in the library. 

Asking for help isn’t just academic. Learn when to ask for help mentally, physically, and emotionally. Our counseling services center is on the third floor of the Keathley University Center (KUC). They can give you six free sessions with one of their providers and help you find a permanent, affordable one if you need. Take care of yourself and ask for help when you need it.

Tip #9: Don’t forget to have fun while taking class seriously 

GO TO CLASS! Just because you can skip class does not mean you should. Some scholarships are determined based on attendance. Plus, it’s hard to do well in a class you never attend. 

Try your best to do all your assignments on time. You will have less stress and more time to do things you enjoy. 

Balance is key. Do all your school work on time, but also enjoy yourself. Try new things. Put yourself out there. Pick up a new hobby. There will not be another time in your life quite like college. 

Tip #10: Study tips

Learn how you study best. Maybe you figured it out in high school, or maybe not. If you haven’t, let me tell you some of my favorite study methods.

I study and work best in public places. I love the library, and I love coffee shops. At home, there are so many distractions. I find it easier to focus, and I accomplish more faster. 

I am also a big fan of listening to music without words. I like instrumental pop music, but you can listen to jazz, classical, etc. I find it less distracting for my mind because I can’t focus in complete silence either. You can always rent a study room in the library. 

Tip #11: Mindset

Just like any experience, college is what you make it. Mindset plays an important role in the type of experience you will have. Try to approach this experience with an open mind. It is going to be uncomfortable and awkward at times. Making new friends and finding your place in this world is difficult. It will help if you look at this experience as exciting. 

There is something really valuable and rewarding about putting yourself out there. Learn to pick yourself back up when things don’t go to plan. You are going to be okay! 

Student Voice content producer Ella Cobb is a senior majoring in digital marketing. The Student Voice is part of the MTSU Division of Marketing and Communications.