Advice for Class of 2030 from a 2026 grad

 

By Maddie Pedone ’26 

Heading to college is an exciting and stressful time. So many new opportunities and experiences await, but entering this new world can feel a little scary. Here are some pieces of advice I wish I’d known during my first semester at Lafayette. 

1. Keep saying yes: During the first two weeks of the fall semester, Lafayette hosts a different event every day for first-year students, and everyone will tell you to go to these events to meet new people. But after those two weeks, you shouldn’t stop saying yes and should continue going to activities on campus. You can find a schedule of club meetings, talks, and special events listed on OurCampus. The more activities you attend at Lafayette, the sooner campus will feel more like your second home.
2. You can always order: You probably have a very long list of items to bring for move-in like fans, snacks, shower shoes, and school supplies. While it’s good to come into college prepared, you don’t need to panic if you forget something or don’t have enough room to bring something. The Post Office located in the basement of Farinon offers a convenient and easy way to grab packages. The College Store has toiletries and school supplies if you’re in a pinch.
3. Attend a sporting event: During the fall semester, so many sports are in season, from football to soccer and field hockey. Ask people in your First-Year Seminar program (FYS) or people living in your dorm to attend a game together. It’s the perfect activity to meet new people and get in the Lafayette spirit!
4. Practice getting to class: The first day of classes can feel overwhelming as you’re navigating not only a new school, but a new campus. To alleviate some of the first-day jitters, do a test run to each of your classes. Find the buildings and classrooms, so on your first day you look like a pro knowing where you’re headed.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Between your LEO (Lafayette Extended Orientation student leader), RA, and staff members at Lafayette, lots of information is going to be shared during Orientation to help you gain an understanding of how life moves at Lafayette. But you’re bound to run into bumps while navigating campus, like how to use the printers in Skillman Library. Don’t hesitate to ask someone for help—everyone here is happy to answer any questions!   
6. Take it day by day: Hearing your professor run through their plan for the semester or thinking about the next four years in college may feel like a lot all at once. But don’t worry about everything. Focus on what you need to deal with that day, and eventually you’ll get all your work done.
7. Enjoy it: The initial moments at Lafayette during your first year can be hectic and sometimes exhausting, but try to enjoy everything. Approach every event and class with an open mind. You never know what you are going to learn or whom you are going to meet.