I would like to start by saying welcome to the freshmen and transfer students to IU Southeast and “welcome back” to the returning students. This is my second year at IU Southeast, and, after two other universities, I truly feel at home.

I loved attending Bellarmine University and the University of Kentucky, but they didn’t have what IU Southeast has given to me.

I hope along your journey here, you will find exactly what IU Southeast can provide you, but, first, I would like to offer you some advice in succeeding and/or continuing your education here.

1. Attend class. I know there will be times when you don’t feel like rolling out of bed, but attending class is important in college.

If you are sick or there’s a real emergency that requires your full attention, then don’t go to class. When you are in class, pay attention and be punctual.

2. Get involved or at least be open to meeting new people. I know many  freshmen have heard “get involved,” but it is vital to your college career to meet new people.

Trust me, it will be nice to have some people to relate to when things get rough.

If you don’t join an organization on campus, try to form study groups in your classes or just introduce yourself to new people.

I just ask you to be open to meeting new people out of your normal realm.

Be courageous.

College is the time for discovery, but also to learn to be an adult, so be careful.

3. Develop a thick skin but have fun.

College often times can be competitive — competing for an internship or even the top grade in a class.

Therefore, some may try to belittle or criticize you.

Just remember the only person you have to answer to is you and only you.

College is also about having fun and discovering who you are before entering the “real world.”

If you have fun, just remember to be smart about it.

I hope you find these tips helpful during your time here. I also hope you find your college career educational, rewarding and fun.

By AMANDA FRENCH

Features Editor

aafrench@imail.iu.edu