The 411 on Freshman Year

Let’s be honest here: the transition from high school to college is not an easy one.  Most times, you make the transition from being a “big fish in a small pond to a small fish in a big pond.”  At Stony Brook, a campus with over 20,000 graduate and undergraduate students, this feeling undoubtedly applies to most freshmen.  Eighteen is a rough age; you are stuck between childhood and adulthood, which makes the shift to the university level even more complex.    College can be intimidating, even daunting at first, until you find your niche and blossom.  Though freshman year is a clean slate and starting point, it is important to remember that senior year and graduation is only three short years away.  Preparation is key, and it is never too early to utilize the resources that are right before you. 

The first six weeks of school are considered the adjustment period.  During this time, freshmen students are the most formidable, and get acclimated to Stony Brook by testing the college waters, so to speak.  As a freshman, it is important to achieve a delicate balance of socialization and education.  College brings about a whole new world of freedom and responsibility: nobody tells you to go to class; nobody makes sure that you study; and nobody reminds you to complete homework assignments.  You must take the initiative to shape and plan your future.  Become engrossed in your classes; make and cultivate relationships with professors and staff members; become involved in clubs and organizations; actively seek opportunity.   

It is never too early to utilize the Career Center and the services it offers.  Come to resume review, and transform your lengthy high school activity record into a polished and articulated one-page document.  Make an appointment with an advisor or stop by during walk-in hours to receive guidance and advice about your major and related activities.  The Career Center exists to help you, regardless if you are a freshman.  Take advantage of ZebraNet and the events and workshops that are offered.  You may ask, “As a freshman, why should I go to and use the Career Center if none of my friends are?”  The answer is this: if you are motivated to succeed upon entering college, you will graduate from Stony Brook University with a plethora of experience and career opportunities.  You reap what you sow, and as cliché as it sounds, hard work really does pay off – trust me. 

Check out this video: Words of wisdom from a current freshman, Anna Lubitz.