Students are now counting down the days to their first day of class at UNC Greensboro. They’ve learned tricks and tips from New Student Transitions & First Year Experience, reviewed their class schedules, met new friends at SOAR, and set up their dorm rooms during Stop, Drop, and Roll. Now it’s time for those students to make UNCG their second home.
New students should take comfort that the residential staff understand what they are going through. The resident advisors (RAs) in the 28 Housing and Residence Life domiciles are fellow students. They know what it’s like to balance deadlines with hobbies, sports, well-being, and friend groups at UNCG.
Before students moved in for Fall 2024, they wrote down words of advice and encouragement for incoming students, welcoming them into the Spartan community.
Be Comfortable
“Make your residence hall feel like home, since that’s where you will be spending a good bit of your time here.” – Fabby Castillo, Pre-Nursing
“Communicate with your roommate regularly because having room issues can negatively impact your first year.” – Johan Paniagua-Nava, Accounting and Finance
“Make your space fit to what helps your mental health.” – Ayana Arrington, Interior Architecture
“It’s okay to be homesick, but it’s important to keep in mind why you’re here.” – Barbie Barchue, Biology
Be True to Yourself
“Everyone wants friends but will often be scared to talk to people. Go to events and join clubs.” – Jaylen Alston, Computer Science
“Be different while being yourself.” – Cal Glenn, Public Health Education
“Clubs and organizations are the best way to make friends with similar interests.” – Prathiksha Raghavan, Public Health Education
“¡Se tú! Be you!” – Brenda Delacruz, International Business
Be Open
“Use the resources your RA puts out. It’s a great time to connect with campus.” – Janessa Smith, Nursing
“Ask all the questions. It’s better to be sure than sorry.” – Danielle Jones, coordinator for residence life for Lee and Union Halls
“Be social and take care of yourself. Make use of your resources!” – Xanixus Moysenko, Elementary Education; Gwendolyn Jones, Nursing; and Shavon Foust, Kinesiology
“Everyone is in the same boat and more approachable than you might expect!” – Malcolm Johnson, Public Health Education
Be Adventurous
“Do not be afraid to reach out to people and campus offices and make connections.” – Yahira Robinson, coordinator for residence life for Phillips/Hawkins Hall
“Get involved in any interest you have. Take a class, join a club, or start a club. Meet people and enjoy your time.” – JoJo Johnson, coordinator for residence life for Cone Hall
“Engage in every event you can and be friends with the people on your floor.” – Madi Bates, Health and Human Science
“Read your emails, so you don’t miss out on all the free events!” – Kezia Smith, History
Be Well
“Always make time for self-care!” – Taylor Carroll, Kinesiology
“Don’t be discouraged over something out of your control.” – Elijah Grier, Drama
“One piece of advice I can offer is to establish boundaries for yourself and others. Another piece of advice would be to not get caught up in the moment.” – Jackson Highshaw, New Media and Design
“Don’t struggle alone. Use your resources and ask for help when needed.” – Jaslyn Davenport, Biology
Be a Standout
“Use class time wisely.” – Fatima Raya, Business
“Make a weekly schedule.” – Hylea Lisenby, Music Performance in Poptech
“Comparison is the thief of joy. You’ll see many things on campus but be sure to do things that are true to you. Imposter syndrome is real, so pace yourself and thrive!” – Malcolm Johnson, Public Health Education
“Stay organized; make time to study, explore campus. Seize the opportunity!” – Xanixus Moysenko, Elementary Education; Gwendolyn Jones, Nursing; and Shavon Foust, Kinesiology
Save the Date
Mark these fun events hosted by Housing and Residence Life on your calendars to help you find your niche at UNCG.
RHA Carnival
August 24, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Join fellow Spartans for traditional carnival games and food. It’s the perfect way to decompress after the first week of classes.
House Calls
August 26, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
UNCG faculty, administrators, and staff will visit new first-year students in their rooms to personally welcome them to UNCG.
Best Dressed Room Award Reception
October 4, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
All those who entered the Best Dressed Room Contest are able to attend.
Find some helpful move-in hacks here.
Story by Janet Imrick, University Communications
Photography by Sean Norona, David Lee Row, Martin W. Kane, and Jiyoung Park, University Communications
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