First-year students: Get advice from upperclassmen

Some first-year students will arrive on campus as early as next Wednesday, and their upperclassmen counterparts had plenty of advice on making the most of their time at Case Western Reserve. From academic to social, respondents to this week’s Connect question wanted to make sure new students were prepared.

Meet new people

“Meet as many people as possible during Orientation Week. The people that I am closest to now going into my fourth year at CWRU are the ones that I met during Orientation Week.”

Keep an open mind

“Don't be afraid to truly figure out what you want to do. College is the time to explore. Explore different subjects and courses, try new activities, and don't be afraid to put yourself in situations that seem foreign. You may just find that you enjoy something you never thought you'd enjoy.

Discover Cleveland

“Cleveland and Northeast Ohio have so much to offer in culture, the arts, entertainment, outdoor recreation and parks, restaurants, ethnic & national diversity and scenic beauty. Take advantage of these while you're here when you can.” (Our tip: Take advantage of the Free Access Program to see all Cleveland has to offer.)

Get to know faculty

“Get to know your faculty. Ask them to lunch. Drop by during office hours. Try to get to know at least one faculty member well each semester. Then when you need references, or advice on graduate school or jobs, you have people who know you and want your best.”

Make a plan

“Have a plan. If you haven't used a planner or calendar or some other means of keeping track of your responsibilities, then now is the time to start. Save yourself the stress and enjoy the time you have at CWRU by finding a system and stick to it. I recommend you read Getting Things Done by David Allen for a robust, sustainable system.”

Call home

“You're going to get homesick. Don't be afraid to call and text friends and family from home; they miss you too.”

Ask for help

“Ask upperclassmen for help. They can be your greatest source of advice and notes.”