Navigating through your first semester of college can be a daunting task and may leave you feeling lost in many different ways. So, I suggest giving this guide a read as it contains pieces of advice and helpful resources that I’ve learned during my time at Iona.

Get involved with campus activities.

There are plenty of opportunities to network and connect on campus, such as sports games, campus fairs or joining a club that aligns with your interests. I know it can be nerve racking to socialize with a lot of people around campus, but attending events like the previously listed ones can lead to potential lifelong connections. Iona is a university built on a strong community, and the best way to experience that fellowship is by attending those type of events. Clubs are a great way to meet people with the same interests as you. There are many clubs offered at Iona, so visit the club page on Iona’s website and search for a club that interests you.

Get familiar with the university’s layout.

The layout of campus can seem overwhelming at times, but I suggest doing “practice runs” around the campus. Walk around from building to building and make a mental note of how long the walks are to better map out how to get around the fastest and ensure you aren’t late to classes. I know the walk from Murphy to LaPenta can be a lengthy one, but putting some pep in your step and sorting out the best path will help tremendously.

Explore outside of Iona.

Iona resides in New Rochelle, and the area is filled with fun places to socialize around campus. To engulf yourself in Iona culture it is important to know about the town it’s based in and enjoy the restaurants, bars and attractions. New Roc is a great place to pass the time with friends because there is a Regal Cinemas to catch a movie and on Tuesdays, movie tickets are $7 all day, which is a generous discount. There is also an axe throwing place downtown that is a lot of fun. In terms of restaurants, there are a lot around the area, but the most notable ones are Texas Roadhouse, Buffalo Wild Wings and Applebee’s, and a good dessert spot in YUM Ice Cream, which serves rolled ice cream and bubble tea.

Take advantage of tutoring around campus

Being a first-year student in any college can be draining and the courses are a step above most taken in high school, so it is understandable to struggle a bit in your courses. However, taking these courses is a great way to improve your skills and better understand a subject or course idea. The tutoring service offered can be scheduled and can work around your classes. The subjects tutored range from language courses to business courses and anything and everything else.

I hope this guide was an insightful one, and as a last piece of advice, remember that a lot of people are experiencing the same or similar feelings to you. If you ever feel alone, just remember that there are people out there just like you who are navigating through college life, so have fun and enjoy the ride!