As my first semester at OU has come to an end, I feel like there’s a lot that I can say I’ve learned, both in and out of the classroom. There’s so much that an incoming college student has to learn just to “survive” the college life. Coming from a relatively small school, I never even thought of getting lost on my campus (I haven’t yet at OU, but it’s still early). Becoming familiar with the campus if you aren’t already is a very wise move. Then there’s the whole meal plan/points thing, which you’ll get used to eventually, don’t worry. An exchange is the equivalent of $7 at any restaurant on campus except the Caf, where it is equal to one person getting in ($11 I think). Then your points are like free spending money, as one point is equal to one dollar. Hopefully I got all that right. Getting used to the dorm life can be quite the transition, too; however, I’ve made some great friendships with the guys on my hall.

Now the important stuff: school! My first semester of classes here didn’t terrify me as much as I thought they would, but it’s definitely different than high school.  Those giant lecture hall classes are a little weird at first (it was kind of like my entire high school in one big room) but eventually you barely notice it anymore. It is easy to fall asleep in those sometimes, so pay attention! If you use your laptop to take notes, be sure and stay focused on the notes and not have Twitter or Facebook open in the other window. Some classes are easier than others and you’ll feel different about certain classes, but don’t let that influence your studying for them all. At the beginning of the semester, I was kind of shooting in the dark about how to create good study habits. I wouldn’t recommend studying for long periods of time in your dorm room, because more than likely you’ll end up asleep within the first 15 minutes. There are all sorts of cool study spots around campus, and when the weather is nice there’s a lot of good spots outside, too.

I guess all I can really say is that college is different than high school, but in a good way. Don’t get distracted and stay focused. Keep that in mind and your time at the University of Oklahoma will be great!

Boomer Sooner,

Tyler Block
Shawnee, OK
Human Relations major
Class of 2016

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