Adjusting to College Life

Coming to a new place and school can be a very overwhelming experience. Transitioning from home life and high school brings new challenges—unfamiliar surroundings, new faces, different types of schoolwork, and many other obstacles ahead of you. While this all might seem daunting at first, I’m going to give you some tips on how to effectively get through your first year in college.

Meeting New People and Exploring Campus

One of the first challenges you’ll encounter is meeting new people and adjusting to a new place. Here are some ways to make the transition smoother:

● Try to meet as many people as you can and start forming friendships. New people will come and go at first until you find the right group for you.

● Get out and explore the area to see everything it has to offer. Being familiar with your surroundings will help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.

● Attend campus events and clubs to make connections and find activities you enjoy.

"I was very nervous when I came to school, but once I made friends and joined different clubs school felt like my home away from home"

— First-Year Business Student

Adjusting to Academic Expectations

Business classes will be different from what you’re used to in high school. Here’s what to expect:

● Lecture-heavy courses that require you to pay close attention and take adequate notes.

● Group and individual projects that will show you real-world business scenarios.

● Core business courses like Introduction to Business, Finance, and Accounting, which build a foundation for your classes in the future.

● General education courses such as English, Philosophy, and Theology, which will help improve your writing skills along with your critical thinking skills.

Staying Organized and Avoiding Procrastination

Staying on top of your workload is essential. Here’s how:

● Use a notebook or planner to keep track of assignments, group projects, and deadlines.

● Check your email daily to stay updated on correspondence with professors and classmates.

● Participate in class—it’s a big part of your grade and helps you stay engaged.

● Avoid procrastination because assignments can pile up fast. Break tasks into smaller steps and tackle them early.

Seeking Guidance from Advisors and Professors

Unlike in high school, college advisors and professors offer great help when you need it.

● Meet with your advisor regularly to make sure you’re on track to graduate.

● Talk to your professors—building connections can be helpful if you ever need extra help.

● Use their expertise—professors and advisors often have real-world connections that can help with internships and job opportunities.

Networking and Professional Development

For business students, making connections is key. Here’s how:

● Attend CEO lectures and guest talks to gain valuable industry insights.

● Go to networking events to meet business professionals and potential employers.

● Take advantage of workshops that teach proper communication, email etiquette, and interview skills.

● Dress professionally for networking events, presentations, and interviews to make a great first impression.

Accessing Business Attire and Resources

One issue many freshmen face is not having the right clothes for professional events.

● Catholic University offers the Cardinal Closet, a free thrift store where you can find business attire.

● There will also be a Pop-Up event at the Busch School of Business every semester to help students get professional clothing.

Final Thoughts

Your first year of college will come with its challenges, but it’s also a time for growth and opportunity. By staying organized, making connections, and presenting yourself professionally, you’ll set yourself up for success in the business world.

Ready to perfectly navigate your freshman year? Stop by the Cardinal Closet in McMahon Hall B02. It is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 11 AM to 2 PM..