School is starting, and that means KU has an incoming class of freshmen (the biggest in university history!) who have a lot to learn about college and life in general. If you’re one of these freshmen, and you’re anything like I was, figuring out how to survive and thrive in college seems like a monumental task. I would have done anything to have a guide telling me everything I needed to know. So, I’m here as a senior to give you a basic guide to life at the University of Kansas. We’ll do this by going through the three biggest areas of a KU student’s life: classes, sports, and social.
Classes
The (likely) biggest part of your life as a student is your classes, and navigating your classes as a freshman can be daunting. While the classes themselves can be difficult, almost all of the professors I’ve had are super nice and are more than willing to answer questions and help you out—as long as you show them you’re putting effort into your work. They want to see you succeed!
When it comes to studying for classes, KU offers some great resources, especially at the libraries (Watson and Anschutz). Both libraries are great spaces to get studying done, and you can request a study room if you need to work with a group or even on your own without any distractions.
If you’re having trouble with your classes, many departments have tutors available to help if you need it, and often your professor can point you in the right direction. The KU Writing Center is another great resource, especially if you have trouble writing essays. They can help you with every step of your writing, from brainstorming ideas to revising your drafts.
Sports
Whether you like watching sports or not, your life at KU will most certainly be affected by the sports programs. If you are someone who likes watching sports, KU offers students a Sports Combo Pass, which costs only $175, and gets you tickets to every regular season home football and basketball game. If you get the Combo Pass, you will automatically receive football tickets via your KU email a few days before each game. When basketball season comes around, you will get an email with information about the ticket redemption periods. There are typically three of these, in which you go to the event ticket website and request tickets for the games you want to go to (it may seem complicated, but it’s actually pretty easy).
Even if you’re someone who isn’t big on watching sports, you should definitely go to a football and/or basketball game at least once. The environments at the Booth (David Booth Memorial Stadium) and the Fieldhouse (Allen Fieldhouse) are unmatched on game days. It’s a big part of getting the full KU experience. Late Night at the Phog is one event that I highly recommend going to. This takes place in October and is the first official basketball practice of the season, and tickets are free for students! Both the men’s and women’s teams scrimmage, play games, and do dances, and every year they bring in a performer (this year is Flo Rida!). It’s a super fun event and every KU student should go at least once.
During football and basketball seasons, make sure to pay attention to parking! On game days, various lots throughout campus are restricted to students so that spectators can park for the game. There will always be signs posted at each parking lot a few days in advance, so make sure to plan ahead if you have classes at those times.
Social
Balancing school, work, sports, and a social life can be difficult. Not only that but making friends in a new place can be hard. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be. A great way to meet people at KU is to join a club. Rock Chalk Central has all 550 campus organizations listed on its website. There’s something there for everyone, whether you find something interest, identity, or academics based. Plus, you’re guaranteed to have something in common with the people in the group!
Another good way to meet people is to join Greek life. This definitely isn’t for everyone—and I’m not personally involved—but the people I know who are tend to be involved in other areas on campus, and they know a ton of people. Most fraternities and sororities have both fall and spring rush periods, and they each have different protocols and requirements for joining. They have various events throughout the year, including philanthropy and social events.
Getting a job is also a good way to meet new people. KU offers many student jobs on campus, in places like dining halls, department offices, libraries, and more, and you can find and apply for them here. There are also businesses of all types in Lawrence that hire students. By getting a job as a student, you can not only meet people but also get experience for your resume!
Starting college and your adult life is guaranteed to be hard. However, KU offers a lot of resources that make it easier and more fun! There’s something for everyone here, and with the right resources and knowing how to use them, starting college can be a lot less scary. I hope this guide was helpful, and good luck with the rest of the semester! Rock chalk!