Welcome to your freshman year, where one day you were asking permission to go to the bathroom and the next day you could stay out as late as you want with no one in your ear.
With all this new found freedom it can be a little overwhelming. So here are a list of things that you can do in the first few weeks of classes to grow outside of your zone and start your first four plus years off right.
START THE GROUPME IN YOUR CLASS
When you step into a new class everyone is nervous, even if you can’t tell. Being the one to start the Groupme in class draws people to you. Not to mention the benefits later on if you miss a class or just need help on homework assignments. This is the greatest way to connect and network with other students. The action itself shows initiative and readiness to take on the long semester to come.
EXPLORE DIFFERENT CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Be a part of Black Student Union, Union Program Council, Salsa or Swing Dance Club, Student Government Association, Hispanic American Leadership Organization, or maybe even start writing for Manhappenin’, because why not?
TALK TO YOUR FLOORMATES
If you don’t bond with anyone in your classes or your major, then the people you should connect with the most are the group of people you shower, sleep and eat with. Leave your door open you will have a couple of friends walk right in.
SIT WITH A RANDOM PERSON AT THE DINING CENTER
When it’s busy and you have no one to sit with I’m sure there are plenty of people sitting on their own waiting for a cool person like you to start up some nice conversation over a good meal.
TALK TO THE PERSON NEXT TO YOU IN CLASS
It’s the first day of classes and the person sitting next to you is looking for a friend just like you. You just found your study buddy and quite possibly your best friend.
HANG OUT WITH YOUR ROOMATES AND THEIR FRIENDS
I found that meeting my roommate’s friends made classes a little easier because I always ran into one of them in lectures.
SWITCH IT UP
Don’t be afraid to try something different. There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in a routine, so make sure you try different trends, foods, or hobbies and switch something up every day.
STUDY ABROAD
Traveling to another country is one of the greatest learning experiences. You are completely submerged in a new culture with great food, people, history, and depending on where you go architecture. You will not just be stepping out of your comfort zone, you will be jumping into an uncomfortable abyss but it will be worth it when you come home more open-minded and a love for the world.
INTERNATIONAL BUDDIES
You have learned enough about the United States learn about other people and where they come from. The International Buddies Program pairs K-State students, staff, and community members with international students, scholars and family members. Once paired, Buddies meet regularly to learn about their partner’s cultures, customs, and explore Manhattan & K-State together.
BE ADVENTUROUS
There is so much to do in Manhattan besides Aggieville. You can hike and bond with friends at the Konza, or drive out to Top of the World, a scenic overlook road off of Highway 113, on a nice clear night. Remember to get outside your comfort zone!
