For freshmen, beginning their college experience comes with a variety of questions, emotions and possibilities. One of the best ways to learn is from upperclassmen who have been there and done that — and by taking a course designed to help incoming freshmen transition to college life.
First-year students in the Diederich College of Communication take COMM 1050, otherwise known as Communication Pathways, which is designed to act as a freshman roadmap for academic, personal and social resources.
Erin O’Brien, director of student success and recruitment in the college, teaches the introductory course and notes that despite how students may be feeling, they are incredibly capable.
“They genuinely want to succeed,” O’Brien says. “I love working with first-year students because it’s such a joy to watch them grow in confidence, discover who they are and evolve throughout their time at Marquette.”
O’Brien encourages first-year students to get organized early, have a weekly planner, take care of their mental and physical health and talk to older students about their experience.
A mix of juniors and seniors were asked the question, “What did you wish you knew as a freshman?” Below is what they think every freshman should know:
Charlie Herman, junior; advertising
“Go to CheqMark and enable text notifications for free food around campus. Also turn on the notifications for safety and weather alerts.”
Grace Poppe, junior; human resources
“You don’t have to know where you’re meant to be right now — it’s ok to change your major later freshman or sophomore year. Do what fulfills you.”
Henry Drogosz, junior; digital media and advertising
“Join lots of clubs at O-Fest even if you are half interested, meet new people everywhere you go and put yourself out there.”
Matthew Czyzewski, senior; finance, commercial banking and information systems
“You need to network every chance you get, talk to everyone in your major and classes. Also, go to career fairs to build connections early on to set yourself up for success.”
Areine Vartanian, senior; public relations
“Get to know your professors, go to their office hours and build connections because you never know how they could help you in your professional career.”
Grace O’Reilly, senior; psychology
“If you are having a bad day, go to the police station and you can most likely pet Blue and Bean just for a little boost.”
Maddie Meyer, junior; public relations and advertising
“Download the Everyday app to see the dining hall food options each day to switch up your eating location.”
Matt Hartigan, senior; exercise physiology
“Put everything into your Outlook calendar to stay on track with your schoolwork to help yourself not procrastinate.”
McKenna Schaff, senior; political science
“Safety is a top priority; you need to be aware of your surroundings while walking on campus. Be smart and download the Eagle Express app for free rides to your destination. Walk with a buddy, especially at night.”
Maisy Keith, senior; communications studies
“Friendship is around every corner you look.”
Students can access resources around campus through places like the Counseling Center and the Lemonis Center for Student Success.
