Welcome to the G! Whether you’re new to UNC Greensboro or just returning from summer break, here are a few simple reminders that will get you settled for a great year ahead.
1. Introduce Yourself
The best way to make this campus feel like home is being open to connections you can make all around you. Say hello and share a smile. Introduce yourself to professors, classmates, hallmates and people you pass as you walk through campus. You never know how a simple connection might open the door for unexpected opportunities.
Taking the extra step with your teachers will come in handy when you need extra help before midterms, and it could even lead to a position on a research team. Broadening your social circle will make campus living more fulfilling and fun. Keep in mind that every new school year is an opportunity to start fresh. If you see someone you think you recognize from last year, reintroduce yourself. Chances are, they are trying to place your face as well!
2. Establish a Routine
The life of a college student can sometimes feel insanely busy but too much free time can be boring. Establishing a balanced routine keeps students at their most productive and healthy.
Outside of class, make time for meals, exercise, workouts at the Kaplan Center, study sessions, work, and downtime for socializing or clubs. Don’t miss the Fall Kickoff (August 20, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on College Avenue) for a great overview of campus clubs that cover all kinds of interests from specialized hobbies and sports to service and cultural groups. Continue the fun and connections with lots of activities during UNCG’s awesome Rawkin’ Welcome Weeks through September 6.
For new students, getting to know the campus and transportation options like Spartan Chariot is key. The UNCG Mobile app is a great resource for this. Updated interactive maps can help you route your way around construction detours on campus. Plan accordingly, and you’ll never be late for class.
3. Make Use of Resources
College years provide a supportive transition to adulthood especially when students take advantage of the resources all around them. Tutoring, financial planning, mental health counseling, resume building, and more are free to students at UNCG.
The initiative, Spartans Thrive, helps ensure student success by connecting them to wellness resources. Get an overview of what’s available to you on August 28 from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the interactive Be Well Stay Well event in the EUC Cone Ballroom. Free food and giveaways will be provided.
In addition, stay tuned to UNCG News on Thursdays for more information about campus resources designed for student success. The first story launched last week with advice from resident advisors about how to make the most of college life at the G. Upcoming stories will cover counseling services, Career & Professional Development’s job searching support, and academic help from the Writing Center and Speaking Center.
4. Embrace Greensboro
One of the perks of attending UNCG is living in such a vibrant community. We are perfectly positioned in the center of the state so a quick getaway to the mountains, the beach, and metropolitan areas like Charlotte and Raleigh is totally doable. But even without leaving the city limits, you can enjoy great restaurants and diversions – including many owned by alumni, a downtown that feels like a city and a neighborhood all at once, and sports and concert opportunities at the Greensboro Coliseum.
Every fall Greensboro hosts the North Carolina Folk Festival. Mark your calendar for September 6-8, when downtown Greensboro will be transformed with musical stages, art booths, and food trucks. It’s the perfect time to acquaint yourself with your new hometown.
5. Give Back
UNCG’s one-word motto, “service” began with its first graduating class in 1893. The calling to give back to the community surrounding our campus defines us as Spartans. Jumping into acts of community service is a sure-fire way to feel connected to Greensboro.
The beginning of each semester includes a day of service. MLK weekend has one and Saturday, August 24 is the next Spartan Service Day. UNCG’s Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement (OLCE) organizes these days of service for students to volunteer together at various nonprofit organizations around the county. Transportation is provided and the work is always fun and fulfilling.
OLCE also hosts a Volunteer Service-Learning Fair on September 5, 1:00-4:00 p.m. in the EUC Cone Ballroom. There you can learn about local organizations that need volunteers and ways you can earn service hours for the Spartan Leadership Challenge.
Happy first day of class, Spartans. Settle in and make this year your best one yet!
Story by Becky Deakins, University Communications.
Photos by Sean Norona, University Communications.
