One month in, KU freshmen learn to adjust to campus life
Freshmen are now four weeks into their first semester at KU, and while some are adjusting to campus life, some are still figuring it out.
Howard Graham Phd, doctor of philosophy, who used to work in First-Year Seminars at KU aid that for most students it often varies on how they transition to the school, their academic preparation, and whether they’re coming from a private school, big school, or smaller school.
“Generally I think students are doing really well,” Graham said. “If you feel like you’ve not found your stuff, seek out the resources: the career centers we have on campus, the very student support offices but also the great opportunities at study abroad or going out to athletic events.”
What this variability in student background does is make it hard to find a baseline on how the average freshman is doing at this point in the semester.
First Year Seminars are meant to help bring students together while also encouraging them to grow their own personal agency while in college.
Educators like Graham try to help students achieve this by creating spaces where they can interact with one another and build connections.
“You know that series of questions that you get on the first day of classes?…Those things are super important to helping people get to know you a little better,” Graham said. “I really encourage my students in class, put down your phones and talk to the people next to you.”
Some freshmen have found that being put into situations like these help them get to know their peers and build relationships.
Freshman Jacqueline Flucke said that her experience has been great and that joining her sorority has helped her adjust to campus life.
“It’s been amazing, I love my roommates, my classes, I’m also in a sorority so it’s all going so well,” Flucke said.
She also added that being close to home helps. She said she goes home every now and then, which has made the transition easier.
When it came to learning how to navigate the campus, Flucke said she used apple maps and was able to find her way around quickly.
However, Flucke’s first month hasn’t been without its challenges.
“One of my main challenges is just balancing that like school work and social life,” Flucke said. “Being realistic with myself about getting good grades but also balancing that with having fun.”
Watch the segment here:
