TIPS FOR LIVING ON CAMPUS
Sarah Hurley
Beginning college is an exciting time in one’s life. Students have the opportunity to study an area that interests them, gain independence, and grow their leadership skills.
Even though college has its ups, it also has its downs. Many students tend to experience homesickness, struggle academically, have difficulties fitting in, and even face challenges when it comes to time management.
Fortunately, there are numerous tips that students can follow, in order to adjust to this new way of life.
Get Involved
Getting involved with the different clubs and organizations on campus is a great way to meet people and pursue your interests!
Attend on campus events and activities
Widener University’s clubs and organizations hold numerous events throughout the semester. Consider attending some of these events as a way to meet new people and have some fun during the semester!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Please reach out to a family member, friend, advisor, upperclassman, RA, or even make an appointment with CAPS if you ever find yourself needing help. Remember, no one goes into college knowing what they are doing. Chances are, you have the exact same questions as other students in your class. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to speak up and ask for help whenever you need it.
Join the PRIDE Mentoring Program
The PRIDE Mentoring Program is an amazing resource for all students at Widener. This organization provides first-year and transfer students with the support and guidance they need to succeed at Widener. The people in this program are truly amazing individuals who are there for you whenever you need them. I’m not just saying this because I am a PRIDE Mentor. This program truly gives students the support and friendships they need in order to thrive!
Try new things
One way to adjust to college is to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Doing this will not only allow you to get involved on campus and meet new people, but you will also have the opportunity to learn new skills, gain a new hobby or passion, and most importantly, have fun!
Believe in yourself
At times, college can be very stressful and overwhelming. Please always have confidence in yourself. Know that you can truly accomplish anything you set your mind to.
Don’t overbook yourself / take on too many responsibilities
Overbooking yourself and taking on too many responsibilities are two of the worst things you can do in college. Your classes are hard enough. You do not need to overwhelm yourself by taking on too many responsibilities for your extracurriculars. Know your limits and understand that there is nothing wrong with saying “no” and telling someone you are unable to complete something.
Stay organized / manage your time
Staying organized and managing your time are two extremely important aspects to succeed in college. Consider purchasing a planner so that you can write down every assignment and responsibility you have. This truly helps you stay on top of everything and complete everything in a sufficient amount of time.
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them
Know that everyone makes mistakes. They are inevitable. Though, you must also understand that these mistakes do not define who you are as a person. You simply need to take these mistakes and turn them into a learning experience.
Make time for yourself
Make time for yourself to relax and unwind. Try watching your favorite movie, listening to your favorite song, reading a great book, or even taking a walk.
Utilize campus resources
Widener has many campus resources all students should take advantage of. Consider going to the library to study or work on homework. Visit the writing or math center for help with assignments or even make an appointment with an academic tutor to receive assistance. Widener’s shuttle buses will take you to different off-campus locations, such as Walmart and Target. CAPS is also a great resource to use whenever you need to talk through anything going on in your life.
Visit Student Health Services when you don’t feel well
Widener University has an on-campus doctor for you to visit whenever you don’t feel well. Take advantage of this and do not ignore any health symptoms you may be experiencing.
Make sure you eat
This one may seem obvious, but many students tend to skip meals, especially when the semester becomes very busy. Please make sure you eat three meals a day. If you don’t feel like eating at the cafeteria, Widener has many other dining options where you can utilize your meal swipes, such as Bento Sushi, TLC, Einstein Bros. Bagels, and Moe’s Southwest Grill. You can also use one of your meal swipes at Uno's. If you haven’t already done so, download the Dining Sidekick app, so that you can easily order from any of these places on campus.
Off campus, there are numerous restaurants to order from. Check out our “Chester Dining” article to learn more about some of the places around Widener!
https://wublueandgold.wixsite.com/website/chester-dining-1
Get enough sleep
Sleep is another super important aspect of life. Please make sure you get enough sleep each night, otherwise you will not be able to function properly and get through the day.
Actually go to class
The most important part of college is going to class so that you can get your degree. Try not to skip class simply because you do not feel like going.
Mason Klaus is currently a senior here at Widener. Mason took the time to go over some personal tips she has for anyone living on campus.
Make a self-care safety kit
A self-care safety kit is great to have when you aren’t feeling too well. Use a storage container or basket to create your kit. Include items that put you in a good mood and help you relax. These can include your favorite snacks, a great book, a warm blanket, essential oils, motivational quotes, and even pictures of your loved ones. This kit will seriously provide you with a great resource to take care of yourself whenever you are feeling down.
Purchase a first aid kit
You never know when you are going to need a first aid kit, so make sure you purchase or make one before you move into your dorm.
Keep a microwave in your room
Keeping a microwave in your room will allow you to heat up leftovers or even make a snack, like popcorn, all without leaving the comfort of your dorm.