Five questions every freshman should ask at orientation

First of all a little bit about myself!  My name is Zack Kowalski and I am a senior at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, majoring in science education. I was a freshman orientation mentor this summer, introducing CMU’s newest class of freshman to campus. Growing up in Grosse Ile, I graduated from Grosse Ile High School in 2010 and love being from Downriver!


If you’ve recently graduated from high school and gearing up to head to college as a freshman, no doubt you’ve got questions. Here are some answers that can help you make your way around campus. Spending the month of June as a freshman academic orientation mentor at Central Michigan University, I’ve been asked a lot of questions. Hanging out with new students and introducing them to college life, I’ve come up with my list of the top five questions every freshman must ask before hitting campus.

 

1.    Best way to meet new people on campus?

Living in the residence halls, the rule is: leave your door open. That’s how people get to know each other. Don’t be shy, say hello and introduce yourself.

 

2.    Do I have to sign a major right away?

Being undecided is okay. Take a variety of classes. I planned to study speech pathology, then I took a few education classes and did some volunteer work, and I found a major that was really for me. I’m glad I took the time to explore.

 

3.    How do I get involved on campus?

Dive in and find activities interesting to you. I got involved in CMU’s Leadership Institute and Greek life.  Both organizations offer chances to meet people and travel. I went to Tampa to a Phi Kappa Tau retreat for fraternity presidents, and the experience didn’t cost me a dime, thanks to funding available for students. There are hundreds of student organizations on campus.

 

4.    What’s a popular campus tradition?

Colleges are big on traditions. A CMU favorite happens just before the first week of classes. It’s a huge event called “Mainstage” and the best place to find out about campus organizations and local businesses. The best part: tons of freebies. It’s a ‘must do’ with your roommates.

 

5.    What’s the best-kept secret about college?

You’ll find the answer to this off campus. Go exploring and check out the community. See what’s downtown. Some of the best places to eat are the local restaurants.  My favorites are the 24-hour eateries – especially when you’re studying for finals and need some late night food. The local places give you a good feel for the town. 

 

If you’ve already attended orientation and forgot to ask these questions— don’t sweat —most admissions offices are happy to provide answers. Shoot them an email or give a quick call.

Until next time!