The fall semester has officially begun, and with it comes a crazy mix of emotions. For some, college is the first time they truly get to be on their own, which is both exciting and– well –terrifying. When navigating university life, there are lots of things to juggle with limited time to do so. To help ease into the semester, here are four tips to keep in mind this fall:

Running late for class? Take the stairs!

One of the most frustrating parts of college is how annoyingly packed the elevators can get. It seems like they’re always full at the worst times. Taking an elevator might be the only choice if a class is on a higher floor, but try the stairs if the destination is only a few flights up! The stairs at the University are almost always empty and can save lots of time when there is not much to spare.

Don’t be afraid to change your major.

College is about trying out different things and discovering passions. While it may feel overwhelming, it is more than okay to venture out and explore new subjects. The University offers a wide variety of intro classes, and changing majors isn’t always as scary as it might seem. Many students discover their true passions through trial and error. Don’t hesitate to make a change if something else starts to sound interesting. 

Join clubs– it’s great for meeting friends and boosting your resume.

Another great way to find new passions is through clubs. The University has a ton of clubs to join, and they are an excellent way to learn more about current interests and new ones. They’re also an easy way to make new friends and feel more connected to campus. Plus, being a member of a club looks fantastic on resumes. When college students are involved in clubs, it shows they aren’t afraid to embrace who they are and can work well with others, which employers love to see. 

Explore, explore, explore: The city is your campus.

The city as your campus might sound cheesy, but it really is true! One of the best things about the University is that it’s located in one of the greatest cities in the world. There is always something new to see and explore. Some of my favorite places to wander are 5th Avenue, Central Park and Soho. 5th Avenue and Soho have the best stores for window shopping and cute cafes for studying. Central Park is a great place to stroll around and take a break with nature while the city continues to bustle around you. You can always spot hidden gems just by walking through different neighborhoods with your friends. That’s the thing about the city: just when it starts to feel predictable, it always has a way of surprising you with something new.

Whether you are running late for class, nervous about finding your passions or eager to make friends and memories that will last, these tips can help you ease into a semester that could be your best one yet. Good luck!