Five First-Year Tips from an FYM

Your first year of college may feel like an overwhelming situation—new campus, new classes, and new classmates. But rest assured, you are not in this alone. In addition to the staff and faculty members who are all rooting for you, JHU also has First-Year Mentors, like me, who are here to help you transition successfully to life at Homewood.

FYMs are Blue Jays too—sophomores, juniors, and seniors who were where you are not so long ago—and we are eager to answer any questions you may have about our campus, its resources, and its community. And to help you get off on the right foot from day one, here are a few tips that I think will help you make your first year a great one to remember.

Don’t Fall Victim to Impostor Syndrome: You Do Belong

It is totally understandable to come to campus and feel like everyone else has some sort of college playbook that you simply did not receive. You might look around at your peers, who appear so confident and capable, and wonder if you even belong. This sensation, which has been described as impostor syndrome, can catch up to you in a hurry, especially in a high-achieving environment. But stop and remember that you are here for a reason. Your own unique set of experience, perspective, and skill is greatly valued and gives richness to the campus. It’s fine, better than fine, if you don’t know everything; college is actually a time to learn, grow, and learn about the world and yourself as you go. Take the ride, believe in yourself, and know that you’re where you’re supposed to be.

Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Assistance: It Is a Strength

Navigating college for the first time comes with a new academic workload, social life, and personal freedom, which can all be a lot to handle. If you feel you are struggling with anything—be it a nagging math problem, feelings of homesickness, or needing to catch your breath in between classes—remember that support is always nearby and that reaching out for it is actually a show of strength, not weakness. Make a point to visit your instructors’ office hours, make lecture inquiries, and talk to your TAs. Remember that your FYM was once in your shoes and is a tremendous ally who fully understands the challenges you are grappling with. And there is also a treasure trove of support services on campus, such as the libraries and writing centers and even counseling and health services. This is not a battle you have to fight by yourself because the staff, faculty, and your fellow students are all eager to help you perform your best and genuinely wish you well.

Participate in Orientation Week: Set the Stage for Connections

Although O-Week might seem like a blend of information sessions, icebreakers, and new faces, it is among the best chances you have to adapt to your current environment. This whirlwind week is intended to help you get acquainted with everything, locate new things around campus, and start appreciating Hopkins’ distinctive culture and community. Try to show up for events even if they are outside your comfort zone. Get comfortable initiating conversations with others—who knows what a little chatting might bring your way? Many of your first (and possibly lifelong) friendships will be formed these days. Capture the positivity and energy around you, take risks, and leverage O-Week to establish the groundwork for your college years.

Snatch Up the Room Essentials: Transform Your Dorm into a Home Away from Home

A dorm room is much more than a bedroom. It is your personal retreat, your study space, and a large part of your well-being and comfort. Spending money on room essentials will be worth when you’re cozily settled in and not desperately trying to find the basics. Aside from bedding, pick up items that will make your room feel like a home and operate effectively, items like storage baskets for hiding items away, a practical fan for temperature control, a good reading lamp for reading into the night, a shower caddy for ease in hauling toiletries, and adequate power strips to power all of your devices. Don’t skimp on a little bit of décor either—even a few personal photos or that beloved poster can make the room homey.

Try New Things: Be Willing to Grow and Develop

College is an ideal time to try things out, academically, socially, and personally. This is your time to step out of your comfort zone and discover something new in which to get involved and immersed—and perhaps even an untapped talent you didn’t even know you had. Take a class that seems like it might be worthwhile even if it doesn’t necessarily some tie-in to your declared major. Join a club or organization that you’d never heard of before; you may find a group of people who like what you like or learn a whole new set of skills. Say yes to the spontaneous moments, whether it’s a late-night conversation with new friends about the meaning of life, an impromptu hall dinner party, or an extracurricular activity. These are the moments we are transformed by in the process of personal growth, the memories that will last forever, and the way you will really start constructing your life in college. Be uncomfortable, stay curious, and let yourself grow.