We’ve all been there: walking around Penn State as a freshman with a world of possibilities ahead. There are so many things to do on campus, but as all upperclassmen will tell you there are some things you have to do before you can consider yourself a real Penn Stater. So, here’s a list of things you should do at least once before the end of your freshman year.
1. Start a random conversation with at least one person in each of your classes
It never hurts to know people in your classes.
2. Make friends
Just go door-to-door, knock, and start a conversation! Who knows, your next door neighbor might just end up being your new college BFF. (You can do the rest of the things on this list together, maybe?)
3. Take a picture at the Lion Shrine
And take one every year after until you graduate.
4. Go to an Involvement Fair!
And subsequently realize you have made a mistake in thinking you would actually be able to be a part of all of these clubs. (It’s okay, we’ve all made the same mistake. Don’t feel bad)
5. Go to a football game. ‘Cause Penn State’s a football school… It’s kind of our thing, It might be something you like or something you don’t, but try the experience at least once.
Just look at how fun they are!
6. Join a THON Organization
You will not regret it when you realize how much you’ve accomplished with your org.
7. Go to THON
You might be sleep deprived, but trust us, it’s so worth it.
8. Go to a party.
Any party, really. It’s part of the college experience
9. Take the White/Blue loop
It’s so much better than walking up Shortlidge.
10. Start a chant on the White Loop
You’ll be surprised at how many people join in.
11. Run after a blue/white loop
And don’t feel ashamed when you do it.
12. Buy some PSU gear
You’re not a true Nittany Lion until you’re sporting the blue and white.
13. Take a picture with the Lion
Because everyone loves the Lion.
14. Take an 8AM class
Freshman year you’re really not going to have much of a choice.
15. Go to the Berkey Creamery as much as possible
You will never get sick of that place.
16. Hang out on Old Main Lawn
Make sure to take full advantage while the weather is nice.
17. Hang around the HUB
There’s always something going on there.
18. Study in Pattee/Paterno Library for finals week
Let’s be honest, you’re going to live there.
19. Order Insomnia Cookies
You will never regret it – until you realize the Freshman 15 is real, but you can worry about that later.
20. Go to other sporting events
Yes, football is great, but we have so many talented teams here that deserve our love too!
21. Eat Pokey Sticks
You’re going to miss eating these when summer comes around, trust us.
22. Climb Mount Nittany
You’ll never see a better view of Happy Valley.
23. Have fun!
None of this means anything if you’re not enjoying what you’re doing.
Hopefully by the end of your freshman year, you can be proud of everything you’ve accomplished and everything you’ve experienced. And just remember to have fun through it all though!
Photo Credit: 1