Hello and welcome to your freshman year at the University of Scranton. First off, let me tell you that even though this is only my first semester here the time has gone by so quickly. I cannot believe that I have been here for four months already. The trick is to really stay involved in your work and definitely join a club or extra curricular activity. You may think that this does not have much to do with psychology, but it does. If you decide to only concentrate on your classes you will have more time to worry about being homesick or missing your best friends. Not that you shouldn't focus on your classes just keep it well balanced.

As a freshman psychology major you are enrolled in the team taught Fundamentals of Psychology class. This idea of the class being team taught has pros and cons to it. It is a really great way to get introduced to and get accustomed to six different teachers so early in your college career. A lot of these teachers teach other psych elective courses so you can decide which ones you would like to be taught by again. It also keeps the class interesting because you get so many different teachers' stories and teaching methods to learn by. Each teacher also teaches the three chapters that are their specialty so they know it very well. As I said this idea also has cons, since each teacher only teaches for two weeks you do not have much time to figure out the teacher's quizzing and testing style. This can be detrimental to your grades, but it does get easier to understand how to do this as the classes go on.

In studying for the tests and quizzes I found the optional study guide to be helpful, as long as you go over the chapters and your notes since teachers have particular stories and lessons that usually show up on tests. Sometimes study groups are also helpful, decide which studying style is best for you.

As a freshman psychology major you are also enrolled in the Freshman Seminar class for psychology. This one credit class also has pros and cons to it, but I think there are more pros. Some people have said that there is too much work involved for just a one credit class, but most of it is busy work anyway. Nothing is really hard, it just takes time. I think that the class is a great way to get to know other psych majors, a specific psych teacher, and to be able to talk to a group about your concerns and problems in your first semester. The classes are small and it is not difficult to feet comfortable with the people in the class. You will also learn a lot about the careers and degrees of psychologists which will be beneficial in later decisions. I think it is a great opportunity to be involved in.

If you are living in a dorm that will also take some getting used to. Living with so many people is an experience, but can also be a lot of fun. Just make sure that you have your own alone time for whatever reason and also make sure that you have your own place where you can concentrate on school work and study for tests, etc.

This first semester has been wonderful for me, I have met so many great people, had so many fantastic experiences and cannot wait to start the next one. Good luck with your time here and know that if you are having a tough time it will get better, just hang in there! Personally, I think these are the best times of our lives.

To the Class of 2002,

Congratulations! You are now a freshman at the University of Scranton. A new chapter in the book of life is about to be created. Many questions and concerns will face you in the upcoming semester, and I am sure that you will experience some fear. I hope that I can provide you with some useful advice in coping with these situations. As a freshman psychology major, I had the same worries and anxieties that you probably have now. I took the advice of upperclassmen and decided to make my college education enjoyable. The first few weeks are tough, but you will survive.

First, you must manage your time. There are many assignments and tests given at the same time, so you have to work ahead. Do not leave things for the last minute. Spend a designated amount of time for each subject every day; the last thing that you want to do is fill behind. Examine the syllabi provided by your professors early in the semester; this will help prevent last minute problems. You also must manage your time outside the classroom. Do not spend all of your time studying; make sure you take some time out for yourself. Self-discipline is a very important part of time management.

Try to become involved in clubs and activities. This is a great way to meet new people and make some friends. There are so many activities to choose from, that I am sure you will find something. The psychology club is a good one to join. It enables you sure you to interact with your teachers and other students with the same major. Do activities that interest you, and you will find it stress relieving. I joined a few clubs and I find them very enjoyable.

Learn to adapt to new teaching styles. Every professor has his or her own unique way of teaching. You will love some teachers and hate others, but don't give up. Try as hard as you can, regardless of the condition. I know that the Fundamentals of Psychology class makes it hard to adjust, but if you try, you will learn more than VOLI could imagine. As a student of the team-taught course, I had to learn new study skills quick. Do a little work each day and you will not get overwhelmed. Do not become discouraged, everything will eventually work out for you. If you feel that you are haven difficulties, contact a tutor immediately. Do not wait until it is too late.

Plan ahead in your college career. Look through the college catalog and the psychology handbook early in the semester. This will help you to make some very important decisions. Scheduling spring semester classes will come quick; try to discover what interests YOLI early. Visit the advising center to help you search thoroughly. Start thinking about your next few years now; everything you do in the present will affect you in the future.

Set some realistic goals and try to achieve them. Tell yourself to take one step at a time and it will happen. There are many resources available to students, you must learn to take advantage of them. You will come across many difficult situations along your path, but you will eventually discover the road to success. Give it some time and you will enjoy your college education. Good luck! I am sure you will do fine.
 
 

Dear Incoming Neuroscience Students,

Welcome to the University of Scranton! By this time, you are in the middle of one of the hardest transitions you have faced in your life thus far. If you are a dorming student, you have left the shelter of your family, best friends, the place you called home and the town where you grew up, If you are a commuter, you have also said goodbye to many good friends that you shared your life with and have now gone their own way leaving you on your own in a familiar yet suddenly changed place. Classes have started and you may have realized that academics will be much more different that in the past. You are in a new social circle and are frantically searching for a new place to fit in. Although this may sound like I am describing the new "hell on earth", you will soon find that this transition from high school to college will change you for the rest of your life. I have just completed my first semester as a Freshman and I can honestly say that I am beginning to see the lights I now see how fast this new journey will flash before our eyes. For this reason, I hope that I can offer you a few bits of helpful information that I have learned in my past few months as a new Freshman.

I will begin with academic life because that is what you are at U. of S. for. (or maybe not- just kidding!) I came to the University of Scranton from a college prep school so I thought that I wouldn't have a big problem adjusting to the academic portion of college life. Well, I have no clue what I was thinking! College is not high school and it takes a while to get used to some teaching styles and the amount of work you are expected to complete. Most professors provide a syllabus that will specify exactly what assignments are due. I find this very helpful for time management. Invest in a good pocket calendar or student organizer that has enough space to write what needs to be done day by day. Simply writing when an assignment must be completed is only part of the solution to success in time management. Also write in specific days and times when you will work on the material. I have found that this will case stress because you can plan ahead and always know when projects need to be started, worked on and completed. This concept only takes a few minutes each week and will end up saving a great deal of time. Don't forget about Biology and Chemistry labs because they CAN NOT be completed at the last minute if you want to do well!!! Another aspect of academics that I found problematic is the teaching styles of some college professors and the amount of material you are tested on at one time. Professors have offices and designated times in which they want to talk to their students. Take advantage of this if you have any questions about the class. If you need more individual help than a particular teacher can provide, get a tutor at the learning resource center located on the first floor in AMH. Having a tutor doesn't mean their is something wrong with you- it's just another student that has gone through the course and can provide helpful study tips for the particular teacher and class, Many teachers also provide study sessions before the exams. If a teacher doesn't do this and you like to study in groups, ask your classmates if they want to get together. Personally, I like to study on my own but groups can help summarize facts so you don't miss any important information in your notes. Some teachers even provide old exams on reserve in the library. This is a good way to prepare yourself so you don't freak out when the test is in front of you. As for Biology practicals, take advantage of open labs a week or so before the exam. Practice makes perfect when it comes to all those biological terms in Latin that you can hardly spell let alone pronounce!

As for a social life, don't forget about it! You may be at the University of Scranton to learn but keeping your head in the books is NOT the way to have a great college experience. In the words of my Biology teacher "these are the best days of your life". In my own heart, I find it difficult at times to forget about schoolwork for a while in order to have fun because I am striving for good grades that will affect my life forever. On the other hand, what's the sense in trading in your social life for a 4.0? Don't yet your life slip away! The U.of S. has numerous clubs and groups. There's something for everyone. Make sure you are involved in something from the start. Clubs are a great way to meet new people. I also made many new friends through class. Try to sit near new people - don't be shy because all Freshman are going through the same thing. Realize your professors are real people too that love to talk to their students. Upperclassmen can also be part of your social group. It sounds kind of weird but the University of Scranton is a family that you are now a new & important part of. Be yourself and people will respect and love you for it, College is a new beginning of new opportunities so make the most of it.

Good luck on this journey to your future!!!
 

Dear freshmen,

I think the best thing I can tell you is reach beyond your comfort zone. Take a chance on yourself and your peers. The only way that you will enjoy your first semester of college is if you expose yourself to new and exciting things. This means accepting the fact that your close friends are miles away and you must thrive in a new environment. You must allow yourself to be hurt and realize that you are growing each day in some unique way.

From personal experience I can tell you that the friends I made the first month of school are merely acquaintances now. I shared a lot the first week with strangers and so did everyone I know. There will be some people who don't understand you, some that don't want to try, and others that will realize you are the greatest.

Academically, all I can say is be prepared. Try to stay ahead of your work at all times, if possible. I have been there when my friend's six page paper was erased the night before it was due. I have never witnessed a panic attack before, but that night I did. Procrastination will never get you anywhere. I realize that you will here this more than a million times during the first week of school, but it is true. Listen to your professors they know what they are talking about.

Also, another thing to remember is balance your social life and your academic life. It is important to socialize but don't neglect your work. My roommate is a Physical Therapist major and a social butterfly (she talks to everyone). However, she almost got kicked out of the Physical Therapy Program because her grades started drastically decreasing.

College in every aspect though has taught me to depend on myself. To take responsibility and to be aggressive with what I want. I have also met a lot of diverse and creative people. I am not going to lie to you; the first few weeks are traumatizing especially if you make no effort to have friends. But you get over it and open up, and somewhere in the middle you realize that you would not give this up for the world. I go home during the breaks and my commuter friends complain about how much they hate school. They do not experience the same thing as on- campus freshman. If you go away to school you are forced to depend on yourself. You determine when you go to sleep what you do on the weekend, when your curfew is going to be.

I have grown to realize how vitally important family is since I have been here. I have grown up so much in this short semester, then in all 18 years of my life. The most inspirational thing that I have discovered since being here is that everyone around me, is a piece of me. I can relate to everyone on some level, whether it is socially or academically. Everyone remembers how they felt the first time they fell in love, they got into their first accident, etc.

The people in my dorm have become my best friends, they know me as well as I know myself From living together we have seen each other at our best and even at our worst, but we remain friends. Because of my experiences this first semester I have changed my views on many things including friendship. All I can say is don't give up, it gets better then you could ever imagine possible.
 
 

Psychology and Neuroscience majors:

I hope you feel welcome at the University of Scranton. I know when I first came I was very nervous and anxious. I was very intimidated about what was going to occur in my life socially. I knew I was leaving my friends, my family, my home, and the comfort of living a routine life that I was used to. Not only was I nervous about the social aspect about college, but the academic aspect as well.

It seems very confusing and overwhelming knowing that decisions you make now can affect your life forever. You just have to stick to your beliefs and set up some goals and work hard to achieve these goals. College can be very difficult, but instead of looking at it as a lot of work and no time to do it in, you should look at it as a challenge to yourself to work to your ability in order to achieve something great.

I think you are really going to enjoy having psychology as a major. It can be very difficult at times. The team taught course can be somewhat confusing and discouraging, but keep in mind that you aren't the only ones taking it or having problems with it. You are adjusting to a new place and a new fife. If you just hang in there and study hard, the rest will fall into place.

Some important things to remember while you are trying to get used to your new classes, is take advantage of the fact that your teachers are interested in helping you make the most of yourself. All of the professors involved in the psychology department are more than willing to assist you with whatever problems you are dealing with. Whether you are experiencing problems with your schoolwork, roommate, or you just want to talk, a professor will gladly give his/her time to listen to you.

Another thing you should take advantage of would be your fellow classmates. Remember, they are going through he same experiences that you are also going through. Sharing your problems or questions with your classmates can only benefit you. They may help you with something or you may help them in return by bringing up a question or topic that also concerns them.

A good way to talk to your professors and classmates and share personal experiences with them is through your Freshman Seminar class. You should definitely look at this class with an open mind, as an opportunity to take time out of your busy schedules to have a laid back class where you are able to discuss such topics that will affect your college life, such as: good study habits, note taking, coping with stress, and time management.

Last,, but not least, I just want to tell you not to get frustrated or discouraged with all the new experiences and challenges that are presented to you. It will all fall in place no matter how scary, burdensome, or overwhelming things may appear to be. Just know your resources and use them if you need to.

Dear Freshman,

I am writing to you to let you know that college is not as scary and hard as it seems. There will be times when you feel overwhelmed and stressed out, but there are ways to deal with this. There will also be times that are a lot of fun and I wouldn't trade these experiences for anything in the world.

The most important thing to learn in college is time management. You must learn how to balance study time with social time. Doing this will keep you from feeling overwhelmed with work because you will have enough time to take breaks and feel refreshed.

Dorm life presents many temptations when trying to study because there is always someone around not studying to distract you. You have to deal with sharing a room with someone who may have different study habits than you. You also will probably have a t.v, phone and radio in your room to distract you. You should learn early to go somewhere quiet like the lounge or library to get away from distractions.

A helpful thing I found was forming study groups with friends that I had the same classes as me. This helped with things I had trouble understanding. It helped especially with Philosophy because I got to hear the groups interpretations on the concepts we were studying. It helped with other subjects because you don't always get all the notes and important facts during a lecture.

Also there will be times when you really have no work to do. It is these times that you should take advantage of. This is so your work doesn't pile up and you don't start feeling overwhelmed.

You should also try to get involved in clubs. This will enable you to become involved in the University and make friends. It is important to make friends away from your dorm because you spend almost all your time with them and of course there will be conflicts. These conflicts occur no matter who you live with and where you live. Living in a dorm is like living with twenty brothers or sisters. It is just as important to become close with these people as it is to branch out. It is these people who will become your first friends at the University. They will help you through the first few months of this new experience and they will become some of the best friends you could ever have. I think every major has a club and there are many volunteer organizations that you could become involved in.

Always remember when you are feeling overwhelmed that this will all eventually be over. The first semester has gone by really fast and I now realize that it was not as hard as I had perceived it to be in the beginning. Good Luck and I hope you make the best of your time here at the University.
 

Dear Freshman Psychology majors of 1998:

1 was asked to write this letter to all of you by my Freshman Seminar professor. I hope I will be able to provide you with some helpful tips and warnings of what to expect entering your freshman year as a psychology major. I myself just experienced the whole transition from high school to college. I am just finishing my first semester here at the university. I have learned a lot in these past four months and will share my experiences with you in the following letter.

First of all, the most important thing I learned upon beginning classes here is that you must be organized. Unfortunately in college, you don't have time or room to not know what assignments are due and when you have classes and meetings. The best way to avoid being disorganized is by keeping a weekly planner. Most likely the university will distribute free ones to all of its students so you won't even have to pay for one. Take advantage of this free item. It will become your best survival tactic. The best way to use it, is to go through all of the syllabi your professors give to you, and write in all of your assignments that are due for the next two weeks. This way you keep yourself on schedule and even a little bit ahead of your work. I promise that if you do this you should not have much trouble keeping track of when assignments are due or when classes and different meetings are. So again, take advantage of the this free item that the university distributes.

Second, read what is assigned to you. This was very hard for me to do. In high school I almost never read the text book because my teacher always told us everything that was in the text. Here it is different. In college, professors may review or touch on certain subjects in the text, but will not give you the information verbatim. This is where I learned to be independent in my classes. By reading the assignments ahead of time you will better understand anything the professor discusses in class, and if you didn't understand certain ideas in the text its a perfect time to ask them during class to explain the ideas. So keep ahead on the reading assignments and you 'II be more efficient in understanding new information in class.

Thirdly, do not be afraid to talk to professors. Almost all of your professors will give you their office number, phone number, or email address. Professors are very approachable. Many times I have had questions and either asked them after class, or I would even send them email about a topic I didn't understand in class that day. Most likely you will become addicted to email here as most freshman already have. So use it to get in touch with professors if you need to. Especially if you are having a hard time in class, do not be afraid to ask the professor for help. Professors like to know that you are interested in the subject matter and that you take pride in your work. So don't be intimidated by instructors, they are there for you.

Finally, do no procrastinate. I myself tend to procrastinate, not as bad as some students, but bad enough. Especially being enrolled in Fundamentals of Psychology, you will have a LOT of reading to do. You will have quizzes about twice a week on different chapters. Start reading at least two days before the day of the quiz. There is a lot of information to be teamed in one chapter, and most chapters are long and take time to read. So do not get behind in your reading in this course, or you will find it hard to keep up. But as long as you always do the readings you 'II get a good understanding of the material in Fundamentals of Psychology

I hope I have been able to provide you with some helpful tips. I hope you find freshman year exciting and probably most of all different. The psychology course you will be enrolled in, is one of intense reading and understanding. But it is also a very interesting and motivating course to be involved in as psychology majors. So remember to always remain organized, to read all assignments, to not be afraid to approach the professors, and most of all, learn not to procrastinate. If you use these tips I have given, hopefully your first semester here at the University of Scranton will be a successful one.
 
 

Dear Incoming Freshman,

First I would like to welcome you to the University of Scranton. The University is filled with so many things that you can do and be a part of I hope you take the time to look at everything and become involved. There are so many differences from being in college than there were than being in high school. I have only been here a semester and yet I realize that I've changed more in these past few months than I have my entire life. You learn so much in such a short amount of time and it goes so much faster than you ever would expect. So my first bit of advice is one that you've probably heard while entering high school which is time goes by so fast, make each day count and don't take anything for granted.

Time, now there's something that you're going to have so much of but not enough of You're going to have so much extra time but you'll probably waste it socializing or catching up on sleep from the party you were at the night before. Then when it comes time for a test or an assignment that's due you're going to be wondering where all the time went. I've realized that managing your time is key to doing well. Don't put things off because you'll only regret it and cause yourself a lot of extra stress.

Stress something that right now is at it's peak here at the University. It's time for finals and everyone including myself who put studying off is driving themselves nuts. I never realized how stressed I could get over work. I never realized that I could study for twelve hours straight sleep for five hours and wake up at seven thirty to study an extra five hours before my exam. I also never realized how much coffee I'd be drinking this week. Now I'm not a big coffee drinker and barely drank any all semester but once exams hit I had five cups within two hours. So one of my suggestions is to stock up on coffee and whatever you like with your coffee.

Partying is something that you're bound to do here at Scranton. My word of advice for you here is don't let it take over. Some of my friends party every night of the week, go to classes wasted, and guess what they're probably not coming back next year. Sure everyone loves to have a good time, but don't let that become your reason for being here. I'm going to scare myself for saying this because I'll sound like my parents but these are not only the most fun four years of your life but they're also the most important. Next year I'm gonna miss my partying friends because they were always so much fun and could cheer me up but in the future I want to be able to do something with my life. So right now it's hard not to go and party with them but I know I'm doing the fight thing.

You'll realize that with the Fundamentals of Psych class you'll experience a range of teachers and their methods of teaching. Some will be easier than others some will be more entertaining and bizarre than others. The common thing that they all share and share with most teachers is that they won't chase after you when something is due and most times you'll have to remember when something is due they won't remind you. The Psych teachers are overall very unique and possess very different personalities but there isn't one that you couldn't go talk to if you had a problem.

So good luck with your first semester of college and with your Fundamentals class. That was one of my most difficult classes but then again I hated reading and that's mostly what it was. So enjoy Scranton and everything it has to offer. Study hard but also realize that you're hear to have fun as well. Don't stress too much you'll drive yourself and new friends insane as I am now doing. I hope you have as much fun here and love it as much as I do. One more thing on the partying note don't go to a party earlier than 930 because no one will be there and neither will your drinks.
 
 

Dear Freshman,

This is just a simple letter to warn you of what is to come! RELAX! Your first semester as a freshman will be hard only because it is a big change. Nevertheless, it is better then high school by far. You will be free from your parents supervision and living on your own. This freedom; however, comes with a lot of responsibility. The key to having a great experience is to balance all aspects of your life. The three main parts of the college experience are: school work, social life, and sleep. If you have too much of one area you may lose out on the others. It is tempting to sleep all day and socialize all night but that doesn't leave much time for school work. In another aspect you shouldn't be a book worm in the sense that all you do is study because eventually you VAII get burnt out. They key is balance. I'm a pretty big par-tier but I can only relax when I don't have to worry about school. So here are some things that you can do to relieve school stress. First, don't fall behind. College work is doable! You spend less time in the class room here and have more time to yourself - SO USE IT! You may be inclined to be lazy and sleep and watch t.v. during your spare time -which is fine: however I recommend that you wait until your done with your work before you hang around and do nothing. It is more relaxing when you know your done with all the assignments and studying that you have to do. I think I'm one of the least stressed out people because I get my work done when it is assigned. I have finals in a week and I have already started studying. True it won't guarantee me an A, but I will be less stressed out during the test if I know I did all that I could to prepare for it. A word to the wise: just do your best. However, if you begin to

feel that your best isn't enough make sure to get help. Go talk to your professors. They will be able to help you in your transition. If you have a problem understanding the material maybe he/she can see what the problem is and recommend a tutor. I think it helps a great deal if you meet with your teacher so they see that you have an interest in your progress. So even if you continue to do poorly at least they know you put an effort into it. They will also see you as an individual rather then just another face in the crowd if you go talk to them. Your teachers are there to help you not hurt you - so take advantage of them! That sounds bad! So good luck and have fun!!! Don't worry!
 
 

Dear Freshmen,

Let me tell you a little bit about what to expect during your first semester here at the U of S. I am a dorm student here at the U of S and believe me, coming here was a great decision. When I came here I met a lot of new people and saw a lot of new faces.

All I can say is that college is a lot different than high school. Be prepared to work a lot harder than ever. Before here my senior year was full of nights with little or no homework at all, free nights, and plenty of TV Well, when you get to college, it's a big change. The first two weeks were the hardest of them all. I had to meet all new faces, learn peoples names, praying that I could remember their names. Next I had to learn the names of the buildings and hopefully find them. I felt as if I were in a land of confusion and it was never going to end!

Next it was going to the classes themselves. Waking up sometimes at seven o'clock, trying to be on time for that early eight o'clock class. That was an obstacle that I had to get used to. Now let's talk a little bit about the work, well that was the hardest part of it all. Coming from high school doing little work at all maybe covering a chapter every four to five days, having a test on one chapter ect. Then when I got to college I was in for a big surprise. I was reading 30-40 pages a night, having quizzes every other class, and hardest of all having tests covering anywhere from 6-9 chapters. Also I had to learn to take notes on my own, because in college the teachers don't write on the boards for the little babies like they did in high school. It's kind of like you have to all of a sudden be responsible for everything you do. Your parents aren't there to hold your hand anymore. You make the decisions for yourself and then you must pay attention to the consequences.

Also when you get to college, there's the part where if you don’t go to class the teacher will yell at you, so basically they really don't know you by name, you're pretty much a number.

Basically, it comes down to the fact that college is a big change from high school and you make your own decisions and have responsibility for all of your actions. So incoming freshmen be prepared to work hard and study your but off!

To the class of 2002,

Few decisions will have as great an impact on your life as your decision to learn. In addition to increasing your knowledge and self-understanding, an education will expand your career decisions and goals. The most significant and memorable times of your life are your high school and college years. The differences between these two levels of education are your immature high school days and you're more sophisticated college days.

In high school, teachers teach you in what is called a teaching environment. Whereas college professors teach you and you are in a learning environment. High school was very easy. It was all about doing your homework and getting to class on time. College is set in a very serious atmosphere. Professors don't want to hear excuses. Their theory is a missed class is missed learning time and a waste of money. Money you can say there is a big different in this prospect. I went to a public school so my parents paid for my school through taxes. In college between tuition, food, and board is $24,000.

High school you depended on your parents to wake you up, make your bed, and do your laundry. College is all about responsibilities and freedom. High school you had your set friends, you lived at home, and you knew everyone in school. You come to college and you're just a small fish in a big pond, attending school alone and not knowing anyone.

High school and college have common builds when one compares the structures of the two schools. These two levels of education are based on four years of education consisting of freshman to senior years. Throughout each year in both levels of education your trades play a big role in how much you achieve. Both in high school and college prepares you for the real world in the sense of being prompt, consciensense, and ready to perform tasks.

In high school teachers were supposed to have all the answers and their main purpose was to transmit those answers to you. College teachers view education as more of an exchange of ideas than as one-way communication.

High school is the beginning of developing mature relationships with yourself and your surroundings. High school gives you experiences to begin learning and applying knowledge in everyday life.

College has a strong impact on how effectively individuals think. It gives the student the opportunity to clarify and improve their interests and goals. As college graduates you will have more couciouness, will be promoted more often, and are much less likely to become unemployed than non-graduates.

High school and college are made up of many similarities and differences. Despite these differences without both of these levels of education one would be lost within themselves. You need some sort of education to make it in life and be all you can be.
 
 

Dear Freshman,

Hi and welcome to the University of Scranton. In the next year, you will be going through so many experiences and meeting so many people. In this letter I will describe to you my first semester here at the "U" and how I got through it.

I live only 20 minutes away in Wilkes-Barre but I decided to dorm anyway. At first, the roommate situation was a little rocky but a bunch of us on our floor decided to switch roommates and that made our stay here much more enjoyable. A little advice if you decided to dorm... talk to your roommate about things that bother you and compromise. Having to live with someone in a little room for an entire year was very different for me. I have a sister but we always had our own rooms. This was a very big change for me. The best thing to do though is talk to your roommate and don't freak out over everything he/she does.

With me living only a few minutes away, I went home every weekend. I wish I had not done that because then I missed out on all the weekend activities. Make sure you get involved. I know many people are telling you that by now but do it because it will make your stay here worth while.

I think the biggest thing to get use to in college is the amount of work you have to do in a short amount of time. In high school I never studied too much and got great grades. What a wake up call when I got here. I studied my butt off and continue to do so. The best advice I can give you about how to get good grades ... DON'T PROCRASTINATE. No matter how much you want to don't. I have done it many times and continue to and it doesn't make all this stress any better. One more thing to tell you before I go. If you are away from home, don't forget about your friend's back at home. Make new friends but always remember about your old ones. Guaranteed you will meet some of the greatest friends at the University of Scranton. Everyone is so nice and helpful. Everyone looks after everyone. I almost forgot, if you take Public Speaking... it's not as bad as it sounds. You won't die from it I promise. I hate getting in front of crowds and talking so I pretty much freaked out every time I did a speech but I made it through. I know the end of the semester seems so far off but it'll go by fast. Believe me it does. Next thing you know you'll be taking finals. Well, I need to go to computer class now but I wish you the best of luck at the University of Scranton and in your future.

Dear Post 12 th Graders,

Congratulations! You've hit the big time. Welcome to "da U." No more S.A.T.'s, applications, or worries, right? Well, sorry to tell you this, but you're wrong. Welcome to college, and weather you know it or not, your life will never be the same.

Now, I'm sure "life never being the same" sounds like a bad thing. Also, I am sure that you have experienced the warnings and scare tactics of all sorts accompanied with newfound independence. But what I mean by "things never being the same" is that change will occur. Change is good. Now is the time to figure out how to adjust to it.

It took me a little while to adjust to the change. In high school, I thought I had my studies under control and my time managed accurately. Then, about a week and a half into the first semester, I felt my world of high school planning as-applied-to-college completely crumbling. Pages and pages of reading, a quiz every other day, and tons of notes and papers began to drive my once enthusiastic mind completely insane! How can you make sure this doesn't happen to you? Prepare yourself! Know that your days (and most evenings) will be spent on your studies and not social plans. It is hard to get used to at first, but after awhile, you learn to focus your time on the important stuff. Just think how much more exciting going out will be when you can only do it three times a month! No, really, it works out a lot better in the long run if you plan your social life around your studies, and not your studies around your social time. Trust me.

Speaking of being social --- get to know the people in your hall. Your R.A. should have an intro floor meeting, and it is a great way to find out about your hallmates and their majors. Some of you could be in the same classes! Take advantage of the fact that you could have nineteen new friends by the end of the semester.

Most of all, try to have fun learning. I know this sounds like a cruel oxymoron, but it can and should happen. College is the time to learn great new stuff, both in the classrooms, and the dorms. It is one of those great passages of life where you leave knowing so much more than when you arrived (and I'm not just talking textbooks and lectures here). Let this place grab hold of you. When you do, you will never want to let IT go.
 
 

Freshman Seminar

December 13, 1997

I would like to tell you that your decision to attend the University of Scranton was the right choice. I know that I was nervous coming into this school because I did not know what to expect. The people here are extremely friendly and approachable and that makes a huge difference, so don't be scared of talking to anyone or trying anything new because that will be the best thing for you.

I'm not going to try to tell you that the work is easy. I had to work harder than I ever did, but now that I am adjusted to the lifestyle of college, I am finding it easier. Being a psychology major is a good choice as well. I was dead set on choosing that for my major so I am going to have nothing but positive things to say about it. The work this first semester was a tedious process but it is meant to prepare us for the road ahead. I am seeing things opening up for next semester, there are so many options offered here.

The most important advice I can give you is keep up with all your work, talk to your teachers, and don't skip too many classes, The work is easier if you keep on top of it, It may seem hard at the time but it will be even harder trying to catch up later. Make sure you talk to your teachers if you're having problems, or even just to get to know them. They are completely different that high school teachers, They are much better to get along with and you can even become friends with them, Getting involved in clubs is another essential aspect of college. You can never know too many people, so meet as many as you can. Also, don't get caught up in your new found freedom. I know I did, and it was pretty hard to break the cycle, I didn't have anyone telling me not to go out or to make sure I went to school and I took advantage of that. I'm not saying to be a hermit and study all the time, but use common sense in making decisions.

Adjusting to college life was an experience I will never forget. You get to do so many things you are probably not accustomed to. For the first time, you are responsible for yourself. I am happy that I decided to attend the University of Scranton. I have already done and accomplished so many things that it boggles my mind that I have only been here for one semester. So good luck in whatever you decide to do with your life!

You did it! You are finally here! All those stressful days of high school ... SAT'S, homework, jobs, and applications left and right. In addition, you had to include activities, relationships, and more. You worked so hard to sit in this very chair, and now here you are. You know all of this, so why am I writing? Well, I am not writing to tell you that things will be easier from this point on, nor or am I writing to tell you that things will be more difficult. However, I am writing in hopes that you will consider some of the suggestions I will offer. I am a strong believer that some of the best lessons in life are the ones learned the hard way. I do know though, that the advice that will soon be presented to you, would have made my life a little more manageable if I knew of then-4 about this time my freshman year. So sit back, take a deep breath, and just let this soak in --- you WILL survive--I promise!

Feeling a bit stressed? Well the first piece of advice I offer, is the foundation for beginning anything in life--good mental and physical health. You are currently reading a letter by someone who was a very conscientious and concerned individual--often times can be described as worrisome. There is nothing wrong with being conscientious or concerned. I did learn though, that being worrisome was not too healthy. I learned the hard way as a result of a combination of genetics and over-stressing. During my junior year, which consisted of the SAT'S, relationship problems, applications, and music auditions, I was at a dangerously high stress level. Soon after, I was diagnosed as a type 11 Diabetic. I learned that stress makes sugar in the body and my pancreas was being overworked. Intense amounts of stress lead to poor mental and physical health. The ways by which you handle stress directly affects your well being. This is not to scare you, but rather to inform you that there is more danger in worrying than not. It is necessary to eat well, get proper sleep, and exercise. (Exercise decreases stress and increases energy).

Can you remember those freshman days in high school, when the entire lunch table broke out in hysterical laughter over a joke? Seems like yesterday, huh?! If you thought that the last four years flew, watch out because you will be soon reminiscing about the funny lunch happenings of your freshman year of college. Can you seriously believe that you are in college, on your way to a career? This is where my advice comes in--PLAN AHEAD-- from next week's paper, to a rough idea of future classes. Before you know it, you will a senior again.

Although it is perfectly normal to experience feelings of regret, it is always nice to look back and appreciate that you chose a certain path without regret. I will admit that in high school, I did not work to my complete ability. I figured that I would get to college and then prove myself. Well, I wish the coffee were perkier when I chose that attitude, because the first week of college was a shocker with the workload. If there is one thing I emphasize, it is to take yourself seriously now. If you do not, there will be an enormous feeling of regret when you are denied that job you had wished for as a child.

My intentions are not to frighten you. The fact is, college is another big step on the latter of life. Each step gets closer to the real world. It is easy to slip, but hang in there. If you keep well, control your stress, and plan ahead, you will continue to climb. Remember ... the time is NOW--not tomorrow because someone else is staring at the very same finish line.

Congratulations! You are about to start (or probably have) your first semester of college at the University of Scranton. If you have chosen psychology as your major, I am sure you will be happy with your choice. I know I am.

I am a commuter, and the first day of classes I was so nervous. The thought of attending a high school where I knew almost everyone, to attending a college where I knew about ten people out of five thousand, was scary. You will find, however, everyone at the University is very friendly.

During the first few weeks of classes I know you will be nervous, but you will get over it. You will meet many new and exciting people (so many, it will be hard to keep their names straight), and many new friends. Your professors may also intimidate you, but they are all very nice and easy to talk to.

The best advice I can give you is not to procrastinate. This is probably the first and fastest thing I learned in college. You will notice immediately the workload is much greater than in high school. It is manageable if you do not put it off

Concerning those quizzes you will probably have every other class in the Fundamentals of Psychology course. do not worry, if you are not getting fives (or even fours or threes) in the beginning. It is a lot of reading to get through and comprehend. You will get use to them eventually, though, and pull them up.

If you start to feel stressed or you are not doing well in a course, do not be afraid to ask for help. There are always people around to help you. You can talk to another student, either in your class or an upper classman, or see your professor. This is why professors have office hours. Also, there are councilors on campus.

The last piece of advice I am going to give you is about your Computer Literacy course. You may find, as many other students and I did, you are not doing very well. Pay very close attention to the movies., and memorize everything!

I wish you the best of luck! Study hard. but Most important have fun. Make the most out of your next four years at the University of Scranton.

Sincerely,
 
 

Well here you are, you finally got through all the college applications, financial aid forms, and everything else that comes along with getting in to college. I bet that when you were applying to schools all you could think about was getting here, you probably didn't give much thought to what life would be like once the work began. Enjoy the new experience of starting college and making friends, but be aware that college is going to demand a lot from you. At first you may be overwhelmed, but everyone has problems when they first start college. I know you have probably heard from everyone you have talked to on campus that college is a whole new world. Well, they are absolutely right. You are one giant step closer to being in the real world. You are going to have a lot more freedom and a lot more responsibility; the overall factor here is you. If you don't want to go to Biology class then don't go, but come final exam time you might wish you had been there. I don't want to scare you, but you now have the power to make or break yourself I hope that after you read this paper then you will be a little bit more prepared for what is coming your way.

After the first few days you will have impressions of your professors, people in your classes, and others you have met. I encourage you to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, do not make Judgements about the kind of people that they are immediately. You may see that a professor whom you thought had a bad attitude is actually a caring person whom you can ask for help. You might not like some people immediately, but give them a chance and you make a great friend. Some of your classes may seem impossible at first, but stick it out for a while and you may find it interesting. I realize that you are coming from high school where you had everything figured out, but keep and your early stages here at the University of Scranton. I guarantee that if you open mind and don't limit yourself, you will definitely grow as a person.

A second point I would like to give you advice on is managing your time. Time is extremely precious in college. When you look at your schedule you may see that you have three or four hours between classes. This does not mean you are going to have some extra naptime or time to hang out. Throughout the semester you will find yourself working, writing, or studying right through your break in between classes. No matter what kind of student you were in high school, you will be studying and reading much more in college. I'm not going to tell you that it's not really as tough as some people make it seem to be. Adjusting to college life can be very tough, but it is one of the most worthwhile things you can do for yourself. Once you have gone through some difficult times you will have more self-respect and confidence in you ability. The important point is to manage your valuable time according to what is most important and that is school. I'm not saying sleep in the library, but you are going to have to restrain yourself from going out partying whenever you feel like it. The way you use the time you have will make a huge difference in your grades.

Another point I would like to stress to you is that your teachers are approachable. When your instructors walk in to class the first day they may seem pretty intimidating. The fact that you have to call him or her doctor, instead of just mister or miss, may cause you to think that professors are busy people who have no time for you. I know that if you make an attempt to communicate with your professors, they will make an effort and show concern for you. They will do their best to find time for you no matter how busy they are; you are the reason they have a job. It does not matter that you are a freshman they will not look down on you or not take you seriously. Your professors do care about your progress even if you believe that they could care less. It is important for you to talk with them when you have difficulties.

I have only completed one semester of college, so you probably are wondering why I am giving you advice. Well, I have just completed what you are about to experience in the following months. I have survived what you may see as impossible to survive at times. I know that if you keep an open mind, manage your time well, and communicate with your professors you will adjust to college life just fine. No matter how difficult it can get at times, don't give up and you will have a feeling of satisfaction at the end of the semester. Good Luck!

Dear Incoming Freshman,

I enter this University as a psychology major because I knew that is what interested me. I was not expecting my first semester to be that hard, but it has been very difficult. I have had more work this semester then I had ever planned to. I thought that I would have plenty of time to study and have my fun on the side. Well in the beginning I skipped my work and had to much fun which was reflected in my midterm grades. After that I realized it was time to buckle down to my studying.

I won't have the best advice for you because I have only been here for a couple of months. I hope the advice I give you will at least help you through your first semester. First of all, you will get many letters saying that psychology is very difficult, but if you stay on top of your work you will be fine. All the professors are here to listen to you, I know it may sound weird, but they are actually paid to sit in their offices. There are many different kinds of professors and most of them will do anything to help you. Your professors will have various teaching methods, you will have to get use to them all, but pay attention in class because they word questions on the tests like they do in class. Do not wait to get help if you need it! Like I said before, the professors are there and you should also have classmates help you. (Classmates make excellent study partners.) Do not be afraid to ask for help because chances are others need help too. Class is not easy. Make sure you go to class and keep up with your readings. It is easy to forget about your classwork when you do not go to class. The last thing l will advise you to do is to get involved in clubs and sports. It is a great way to get to know upper classmen, and they can help you out a lot, especially if there psychology majors.

All in all, I am still learning how to make school the best experience of my life. Work hard and don't give up, there is always someone that will be their for you.

Sincerely Yours,