When your move-in date starts to seem like it’s approaching faster than it was a few months ago, you’ll suddenly realize everyone around you is giving you advice they think is crucial to your college survival. Your mom might tell you to remember to wash your bed sheets, your dad might warn you about the importance of eating healthy when you’re away from home, and your friends might remind you to, above all, have fun. But, who’s more qualified to give you advice about life as a Nazareth College student than current Nazareth College students themselves? Seven students chosen at random have given you what they believe to be the foremost tips for being a Naz student.
School and Social Life Balance
“I think a good balance is making friends within your classes and being outgoing in your first week of classes in order to make sure that you have a group of friends that you can hang out with socially, and can also talk about academics with.” Jessica Byrnes, 2019
“Especially during busy parts of the semester, make sure that you allot at least an hour of your day to something that you want to do, like working out or watching a show. Be sure to set aside time for yourself, even if it’s only an hour.” Eboné Creighton, 2018
Homework/Studying
“Don’t put off for tomorrow what you can do today. Get it done as soon as possible.” Eboné Creighton, 2018
“Procrastination is a tempting problem, so the best thing to do is designate time to turn off your phone for maybe an hour two. When you have that constant distraction of social media you’re not going to get anything done.” Erica Rivoli, 2020
Classes
“Don’t overload your schedule, especially your first two semesters. I wouldn’t take more than 15 credits when you’re still finding your routine as a new student. And, remember that it’s important to get into a routine. It will help you get all your work done on time.” Jessica Byrnes, 2019
“If you have friends who have previously gone to Naz, try to talk to them about the coursework and professors who teach specific sections of classes.” Delaney Martin, 2020
Advisement
“Get to know your advisers, and look for the right people to talk to. Look to upperclassmen and talk to them about what classes are best to take and when. I’m a freshman, so talking to others about the course requirements for my major has been really helpful.” Danielle Lia, 2021
“It’s important to stay in touch with your adviser, not simply around advisement time when you’re choosing classes for the following semester. When you’re picking classes it’s important to use it to your advantage because it can be very helpful. ” Emily Aman, 2020
On-campus jobs
“If you don’t have work-study, they are other job opportunities on campus. You have to encourage yourself to find them and you’ll see how many Naz really offers.” Erica Rivoli, 2020
“Consider your work-study hours. Do something that’s applicable to your major. I’m an art student, so I work in the art gallery. Be mindful of what you want to do and what you don’t want to do.” Arianna Palmer, 2018
Housing
“I would contact your roommate over the summer and set a plan for who’s going to bring what essentials and coordinating colors. It’s always fun decorating the dorm. Also, getting to know them before you get to school is a good idea.” Delaney Martin, 2020
“Think about it ahead of time, because you don’t want to be in the situation last minute when you don’t know what you’re doing. Each year, think about it early on: Who you want to live with and where, and have a backup plan in case your first choice isn’t possible.” Emily Aman, 2020
Dining Halls
“For me, the unlimited food plan works best because I live in Lourdes Hall so taking a short walk down the stairs to get a bagel or something is really convenient.” Danielle Lia, 2021
“Be cautious and mindful of the hours the dining halls are open and closed. Speak up if you want anything in particular because they’ll accommodate for any food allergies or meal specifications you need.” Arianna Palmer, 2018