College is a fresh start for eager freshmen making their way to the University of Memphis this fall. But it’s also an important time to lay the groundwork for a positive and strong four years, according to many upperclassmen.
Whether it was studying for a test instead of going to Chings Hot Wings, getting involved on campus or making new friends, there is something most students would do over if they had the chance. Sadly, there is no re-do button, but for seniors — hindsight is 20/20.
“Come into college with an open mind,” said Chris Wooten, a junior Frosh Camp counselor, president of Lambda Chi Alpha and member of the spirit team. “Do not let people distract you from being who you want to be. When you come to college you have a clean slate. You can decide what you want to be involved in and who you want to be all over again, that is the greatest thing about college.”
Joining a registered student organization during freshman year is a great way to meet people and build friendships, according to Wooten.
“I wish that I was more involved my freshman year,” Wooten said. “I wish that I would have become a frosh camp counselor or an orientation guide because it informs you and lets you know how many different opportunities you have on and off campus.”
With freshman year comes new freedom, but it’s important to adopt a healthy routine inside and outside of the classroom, according to U of M basketball coach Josh Pastner.
“Enjoy every day, have great time management and be taskoriented,” Pastner said. “I think that if you have that type of mentality all will be okay.”
For student athletes, schoolwork is just as important as the game. It is important to hit the books just as hard as they hit the field or court, said Oluchi Agomui, a sophomore volleyball player at the U of M.
“Yes, you hear student athletes are here to only play sports, but in actuality you want to make sure that you are doing really good in class because that is something that you will be able to fall back on if professional football does not work out,” Oluchi Agomui said. “It helps to get good grades right now.”
Making the transition from high school to college can sometimes be difficult. Students should prioritize well, according to senior basketball player Shaq Goodwin.
“My freshman year I wasted a lot of time when I should have had my priorities in better shape,” Goodwin said. “If I could relive my freshman year, I would put my priorities first. My degree and basketball.”
While advisors are present to help students stay on track and graduate on time, it’s critical for students to register in advance and balance their classes.
“My freshman year I would have focused on taking more of my major classes instead of taking all of the university credit ones,” said Kaila Garret, a junior philosophy major. “I wish that my advisor would have advised me to take more of my science courses.”
