Transition Guide Top 10 Tips for First Year Students



Try new things right away! Whether it is hanging out in the Commuter Corner, attending an Residence Life program, participating in your Welcome Week First Year Team (FYT) group, or going to Campus Ministry’s First Year Retreat – find something you want to try right away, it’s the best time when everyone is also trying to make new friends!

Pack Light! Trust us - you don’t need to pack everything you own. Be mindful of the size of your room and that you are sharing it with at least one other person. For your closet, only bring the clothes you will need for that season or things you can layer easily. It’s a critical skill to have when living in Erie!

Trust the orientation process. Orientation is intentionally designed to introduce you to people, places, and programs on campus that will make your years at Gannon great. Participate in all the sessions and be open to making new friends in your small group.

Ask for help as soon as you think you need it. You’re not expected to know everything, and we are here to help you! Professors love getting to know their students during office hours, and the library is full of people and resources to assist you. We know what its like to be in your shoes and want to do everything we can to help you succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; everyone does it!

Use a planner or calendar. College classes are scheduled much differently than high school, so you may be tricked into feeling like you have a lot of “free time” during the day. Organize your free time well so you can get your work done and have time to participate in campus activities and relax.

Don’t feel too anxious about fitting in – there is a place for everyone at Gannon! But if you do feel anxious, know that many other students are feeling the same way right now. It may not happen on the first day, but you will find your place on campus. All you have to do is be yourself. We’re excited to get to know you exactly as you are!

Allow time to adjust to your new normal. It’s different for everyone, but it will take some time to figure out a good routine, make new friends, and feel comfortable in your new home. Take some time to check in with yourself. If you’re feeling stuck, reach out to your Transition Guide, advisor, Gannon 101 Facilitator, Resident Assistant, Commuter Advisor, Campus Ministry, your coach, or the counseling staff. They are here to help you through your transition.

Things might not always go as planned – and that’s great! You may be coming into college with a four-year plan or no plan at all. Either way, be open to the new experiences and new interests that arise. Try to have a positive outlook toward change and know that you’re always learning and growing, even when things are different than you expected.

Find what you are passionate about. From clubs and organizations to research opportunities, student leadership roles, taking an interesting class or just going to a campus event, sometimes the best experiences in college are found when you’re trying something new. At the same time, remember to keep a balanced calendar and don’t stretch yourself too thin.

Remember to take care of yourself. Healthy eating, good sleep and hygiene habits and self-care routines often go out the window when students come to college. You can’t be at your best if you forget to take care of yourself. A healthy sleeping and eating schedule make all the difference in your wellbeing.

BONUS TIP: Read your Gannon email!