5 Tips for Incoming UGA Freshmen

The transition from high school to university can be a startling one. You’re leaving home for the first time and entering into a sea of unknown faces as you (hopefully) strive to further your education. So, check out out short list of great tips for making the most out of those first few weeks at UGA in Athens, GA.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Move On

University doens’t turn everyone into a party animal. It does, however, reveal your true self. Don’t be afraid to embrace the new you and try things you’re interested in but would have never done before.

4. Explore the Rich Athens Restaurant Scene

The meal plan is great. It lets you basically eat all of the time forever. Athens happens to be a food-meca off campus, too. Don’t be afraid to venture outside of cofortable, national chains and explore some grand Athens cuisine. Some favorites you’ll definitely want to check out: DaPalma’s (Italian), TransMet (Italian), The Grit (Vegetarian), The Globe (Delicious), Mama’s Boy (Breakfast/Brunch), and White Tiger (Has weird hours). 

3. Research Your Classes Before You Register

UGA has some amazing professors (some are even honorary PHi Kappans). Some professors, on the other hand, aren’t so great. We all know the sites that compile reviews and grades from college professors, and they are invaluable. I will warn you, though, that you might miss out on an amazing experience (like taking Ancient Philosophy with Brother Dr. Harrison) out of fear of a bad grade. Know yourself and plan accordingly.

2. Branch Out Socially

I don’t care which clique you fell in with in the past. You get a fresh slate and a chance to start over while you’re at UGA. So, reach out and try something completely different.

Are you a huge country music fan? Why not check out a free dubstep show and New Earth one week. Really into the idea of joining a frat? Don’t let that stop you from venturing to the amazing parties on Boulevard and Barber Street. 

1. Go to a Phi Kappa Meeting

Phi Kappa isn’t for everyone. If you aren’t willing to better yourself outside of the classroom while researching and presenting on a wide range of issues and subject-areas, you should stay away. As someone who has worked at a full time job between two stints at UGA and Phi Kappa, however, I can tell you that it is well worth it and easily tops any class on a list of things that prepared me for the “real world”.

At the very least, visit one week and see for yourself. We meet Thursdays at 7 in Phi Kappa hall on North Campus. And, for a quick look at our last semester, check out this post from our president-elect.