University Coaching & Academic Mentoring
Navigating the First Weeks on Campus: A Guide to Early Student Success
By Jade Severson
The start of college is a significant milestone, marking a major transition for students and their families. As students begin their journey at Southern Oregon University, particularly within the supportive framework of the UCAM program, these first few weeks are a critical period of adjustment. Students are navigating a new environment, new freedoms, and new expectations. Understanding the key challenges and opportunities this transition presents can help students build momentum for a successful academic year and set a solid foundation in beginning their college journey. This guide offers brief insight into the common areas of adjustment for many students focusing on academics, social life, self-care, and campus resources.
From Structured Days to Open Schedules
One of the first hurdles for new college students is the shift from a highly structured high school schedule to the autonomy of university life. Large blocks of unstructured time between classes require a new level of time management and self-discipline. While success in this area often involves students finding a system that works for them, whether it’s a digital calendar, a physical planner, or a simple to-do list, the process of developing an effective time management system is less about creating a perfect schedule and more about building a sustainable routine.
The deceptively simple idea of simply showing up… means committing to being in a productive environment during your free hours.
This principle extends beyond class attendance. The act of physically going to a place associated with work builds the foundation for academic success. The UCAM study space, soft spaces and study rooms in the Hannon Library, common areas in the Stevenson Union, or a study room in a dorm can all become spaces beyond the classroom to build on the habit of “showing up.”
Finding Your Flock
Parallel to academic adjustments is the process of building a new social network. Finding a sense of belonging is key to a positive college experience, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Students have many avenues for connection at SOU, often starting with their peers in the residence halls or in the UCAM program. They might explore some of the student-run clubs and organizations, join intramural sports, or attend sporting or cultural events on campus.
For many, social connections happen in small, organic ways. A conversation with a classmate, a shared meal at The Hawk, or attending a campus or UCAM event are just some examples. It’s a process of exploration as students find their community at their own pace.
The Art of Self-Care
With all the new demands on their time and energy, establishing self-care routines is fundamental to a student’s well-being and academic success. Effective self-care goes beyond the basics of sleep and nutrition. It often involves a student proactively managing their environment and energy. This can look like a variety of things:
- Finding quiet study spaces on campus
- Using headphones to minimize sensory overload
- Scheduling intentional downtime to decompress and recharge
- Building support systems with peers
- Accessing resources through the Student Health and Wellness Center
Whatever it may look like, these strategies are essential tools that help students manage stress and prevent burnout, allowing them to engage more fully in their college experience.
You’re Not Alone on This Journey
It’s important for students to know that they are not navigating this journey alone. SOU provides a robust network of support services designed to help students thrive. The UCAM program serves as a primary point of contact, offering specialized guidance and community. Beyond UCAM, many of our students are supported through our Disability Resources department and academic accommodations set up to support academic success. The Tutoring Center for academic assistance, and the Student Health and Wellness Center for physical and mental health care, as well as a variety of other student life and academic support programs are all designed to help students navigate their college experience.
Knowing these resources exist empowers students to build their own support system which is a key step in developing independence and resilience, especially in their first few weeks on campus.
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