Transition to College

The first semester of your student’s academic career is a critical time in their academic success.  In order to get off to the best possible start, your student may want to consider the following ideas during Orientation or the first week of classes:

• Find classrooms before classes start.  Be sure to note if a class is on the West Campus or if you are a commuting student so that you allow time for transportation and parking.
• Attend the Club Fair during Orientation to become familiar with the variety of extracurricular opportunities on campus.
• Learn the name of your academic advisor, their email address, location and phone number.
• Pick up your books at the WSU Bookstore.
• Use a planner to keep track of assignments, exams, and other important academic information.  Orientation leader may have recommendations.
• Organize class materials by purchasing a notebook for each course. 
• Tour the Krueger Library to become familiar with its organization and how to find materials.
• Find campus resources and learn about their services.
• If you are living in the residence halls, be open to meeting new people and to sharing a room.
• Locate the fitness and recreation facilities on campus.  Active students tend to do better academically.

Support your student by checking in after the first week.  If there are any concerns or problems they can be dealt with quickly.  Your student can contact their Resident Assistant (RA) if they are living in the residence halls or their Orientation Faculty Member to identify appropriate resources.