An excited first-year student proudly runs to their new home. Photo by Jonathan Wang.
SAMANTHA RITTENBERG | STAFF REPORTER | srittenberg@butler.edu
There is nothing like the first year of college. For some, this may evoke happy memories, while for others, anxious thoughts are rediscovered. This guide aims to help current and future first-year students have the best year possible. From choosing a major to finding a balance between academics and socializing, there are numerous things to discuss during this pivotal time.
Butler completely immerses students in campus life from the moment they arrive. With three full-fledged days of orientation packed with blacklight bingo, Hinkle magic and every ice breaker a student can think of, it is not until a couple of weeks into classes that the reality hits that students are in fact at school.
Making friends
One of the most anxiety-provoking things about the first year of college is the dreadful thought of making all new friends. However, with a positive outlook and an open mind, first-years will be making friends left and right. Butler also offers many opportunities for students to meet new people and become familiar with Indianapolis.
University Program Council (UPC) hosts a plethora of fun events throughout the school year for the Butler community. The student-run council is composed of four committees: campus programs, campus traditions, city excursions and late night. Many of its programs are held during the first six weeks of school as students adjust. UPC events are open to all Butler students and provide an amazing way to meet new people.
While some people may instantly become best friends with their roommates and suitemates, others may not click right away. Another way students may meet new friends is through their classes. Small class sizes allow students to connect easily with both their professor and classmates.
Junior kinesiology major Larianna Joseph spent a lot of time with first-year students through her position as a student orientation guide. She shared some tips for those who may be anxious to step out of their comfort zone.
“A lot of people think when you meet someone in class, you are never going to see them again,” Joseph said. “Keep talking to them, ask them to study, do things like that. [Some other ways include] going to the gym or doing things on campus. People find their friends there, too.”
New friends are made in unconventional ways, so take every opportunity available to meet new people: talk to that person wearing a “Friends” shirt in the Starbucks line, text that random girl from the same hometown for a ride home or ask the brunette their name after they ask to borrow a pencil.
Prioritizing academics
Finding a balanced schedule in college can be challenging, and academics are often unintentionally placed on the back burner.
Senior healthcare and business major Maddie Siems has finally mastered the art of time management — a learning experience that requires hard work.
“[It is important to] find that balance of how much [time] I have for myself, my academics as well as my social battery,” Siems said. “Try not to get overinvolved. There are so many things to do on campus, but you do not want to stretch yourself too thin, where you begin to lose sight of your academics [and] your mental health. Build in blocks of downtime in your schedule so you do not overbook yourself.”
With its beautiful campus and a wide array of buildings, Butler offers numerous places to study. Finding the ideal spot to study on campus can transform a mundane study session into something much more engaging. From classic study spots like the Jordan Hall sunroom and Irwin Library to lesser-known spaces like the top floor of Gallahue and the basement in Dugan, there are ample locations to pull out those books and type away.
Making a home away from home
Missing home can be a challenge in the first few months at college, but there are plenty of ways to make Butler feel like home.
Getting acquainted with the campus and surrounding area is a good first step — especially for students who are not local. Placed in the middle of the cute Butler-Tarkington neighborhood and along the canal, campus is the perfect place for long strolls and breezy bike rides. There are countless places to explore nearby. Midwest classic ice cream shop, Graeters, is just shy of two miles away and the infamous Ripple Bagel & Deli is a 10-minute drive.
Joining clubs and organizations is a great way to rediscover passions, and it has the added bonus of being surrounded by people with similar interests. With over 200 clubs and organizations on campus, it is almost guaranteed that there is something for everyone. For someone missing their dog at home, they can spend time with Indy Humane Society dogs by joining Dawgs Serving Dogs. For those who miss baking at home, Bulldogs Baking Change offers the opportunity to bake for the community.
Azaria Utley, a sophomore business technology and analytics and creative media and entertainment double major, believes that sometimes the most cliché sayings are true.
“Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try things,” Utley said. “The faculty and staff are absolutely amazing, and they’re so friendly. You shouldn’t be afraid to talk to them or ask them any questions. [Also] just try new things to meet different students and make connections.”
Both first and second-year residence halls have multiple Faculty in Residence who live in the buildings. These are full-time faculty members who create a fun and welcoming space for students by planning educational and social activities within each hall.
Adjusting to college is not always easy, but every Bulldog is on this journey together and wants the best for one another. With countless experiences to look forward to, friends to make and knowledge to gain, students will look back on these memories, missing their Dawg days.
