With the new fall semester comes a fresh batch of students preparing to launch themselves head first into the unfamiliar world of university life. These freshmen might encounter a variety of obstacles, such as unmet expectations, being unable to find their way around campus, having difficulties finding parking places, or just not knowing where to go or who to talk to.
Some Weber State University freshmen, like Karley Devall, had to psych themselves up for the first week of the unknown. Even with a little preparation before classes began, students were still unsure of what was to come.
“I didn’t really know what to expect,” Devall said. “I came before and figured out where my classes were.”
Most students managed to get through the first week without any major struggles, but there were a few minor mishaps along the way.
“The second day of school, I got lost,” said freshman Jeannie Hamilton. “I could not find my math class.”
Freshman Kyle Tuttle also mentioned having problems finding classrooms during his first week at WSU.
“Just the other day, I conveniently lost my schedule, so I had to ask my teacher where the lab was,” Tuttle said.
Trouble navigating the WSU campus is not a rare problem among new students. Most students figure it out on their own and manage to find their way without any major embarrassments. With the help of the staff and the maps located all around campus, a lot of students shouldn’t have to worry about getting from Point A to Point B.
For the most part, many freshman students have reported enjoying their first week here on campus.
“It’s really relaxed,” said freshman Stephanie Cannon. “I really like how I have the freedom to choose how to manage my own time. (But) I wish I could have got more information on scholarships and how to complete them and get them done beforehand.”
Students have also been using some of the many amenities offered by WSU, such as the library, computer labs and UTA bus passes.
“I think deciding to take the bus was a really good idea,” Tuttle said. “When I’m riding the bus I don’t have to worry about traffic, I don’t have to worry about stupid drivers on the road; I can sit there and read or do homework.”
Along with the “wheres” on campus, there are also many “whos” to learn. In many new settings there are new people to meet, and WSU is no exception. Students had the opportunity to socialize with new classmates and begin introducing themselves.
“People are really friendly once they start talking,” Tuttle said.
The campus isn’t the only realm that students have to master. Many students are taking their classes online as well as on campus. Some freshman students did report that they are having trouble adjusting to the online system and how much online work there is to do. Making the transition from hard copy to textbooks has been difficult for some. Orientation was a help for some, and a hurdle for others.
“At orientation I learned how to sign up for classes, but I didn’t really know what classes to take, so I had to meet with a counselor, which is what I wanted to do in the first place,” Tuttle said.
As the new people on campus, the freshman students have many opportunities ahead of them, whether they be joining clubs and organizations, meeting new people, or succeeding in their academics.
