Thriving In Your First Year
Building Your Support System
Your first year of college is exciting, challenging, and full of new experiences. You don’t need to tackle it alone—your support system can help you stay grounded, motivated, and confident. That includes friends, mentors, family, faculty, and campus resources.
You don’t have to have everything figured out on day one. Be open, curious, and willing to ask for help when you need it—you’re building skills and independence step by step.
Here’s how to make the most of your support network throughout your first semester:
Month 1: Be Curious and Connect
- Dive into Light Your Path, student organizations, and campus events. Try new things — this is how you meet people and discover what interests you.
- Get to know your professors and classmates. Ask questions in class, visit office hours, and build relationships early.
- Check in with yourself: What’s going well so far? What do I want to explore next?
Month 2: Practice Independence
- Stay on campus when you can — community and friendships grow when you’re present and involved.
- Before asking for advice, reflect on your own decisions and goals. What do you think is the best next step?
- Start exploring careers and majors early. Visit Career Services, attend workshops, or talk to faculty about your interests. No pressure — just explore.
Month 3: Lean Into Support & Keep Going
Midterms can be intense — remember, you don’t have to be perfect. Celebrate the wins, and if things get tough.
- Reach out to resources like:
- Ask for help early. It’s a strength, not a weakness.
- Talk things out with someone you trust. Sometimes you just need a sounding board to figure out your next move.
Month 4: Reflect, Grow, and Plan Ahead
- Check your schedule. Have you registered for next semester yet?
- Ask yourself:
- What did I learn this semester, about my classes and about myself?
- What do I want to keep doing? What do I want to adjust?
- Focus on growth, not perfection. Every challenge builds resilience.
Final Tip
A strong support system — on campus and at home — can make a huge difference. Stay connected with the people who uplift you. Share your wins, your challenges, and your goals. And remember:
You belong here. You’re growing. You’ve got this.