The first week is a great time to wander around campus and your new town. Your campus will no doubt offer tours, and it’s a good idea to find out when they are and take one. Don’t worry about getting lost. If you do, you’ll find a place that you never would have found if you had a destination. Ask someone to come with you and share the adventure. This is another great way to meet someone.

Look in the phone book or online for places that seem interesting. If you’re a mall rat, find the local mall where you’re bound to feel at home. Like sports? Find out what your new town offers and then go check it out in person. Whatever you do, don’t get caught up in watching TV, playing video games, or instant-messaging people from back home. Start making new memories. It takes effort, but it’s worth it. You’ll be glad all year that you took your first week to check out your surroundings. Once you feel oriented, you can relax and begin your classes feeling at home.

Remember: there’s a reason why you always hear older people saying, “College was the best time of my life.” Or “If only I could relive my college experience . . . ” While college truly is a life-changing experience, it also is one of the most fun times of your life. The bottom line on your first week of college is this: relax and have fun. Your new life as a college student is just beginning. This first week (and your first week of classes) is about as stressful as it gets, but if you arrive prepared, you will have a great time.