Good morning everyone! I want to thank the ones who are sending in the requests! I love it!! Today's topics are going to cover adjusting to college, the work load, the dining/dining plan, and how to deal with being away from home. Some of these will overlap, but you will get the main idea.
Adjusting to college:
I fell right into the college scene really easily. I didn't have to make too many adjustments because I lived with only my mom and both of our schedules were crazy so it was like I was already living at college. You and your roommate will have different schedules and sometimes you will barely see them. Others you will see all the time. It's all up to you on how well you adjust: either you can embrace it or you can let it break you. You don't have your parents around reminding you to do your school work or make dinner or do your laundry. You're growing up and it's time to take responsibility. The biggest thing is freedom. There is A LOT of freedom here. You have the choice to eat as unhealthily as you want, decide what to watch on TV, stay out late, and if you want to go to class or not. Most people have a hard time adjusting to having all of that responsibility come at them at once. I had a friend who was a freshman in the fall who had a rough time because she didn't know how to schedule out her life. Her parents did everything for her and didn't know how handle it when they weren't there (especially her budget. What to buy and what not to buy. Some of you will become expert couponers and always know where the deals are.) It was also hard for her because she lived in a large family and traditions weren't the same.
Another rough thing to get accustomed to is living in small, confined spaces with another stranger. You can read a previous post on roommates, but this is another thing you have to really adjust to.
Being away from family for long periods of time might be hard for some people. I am 11-14 hours away from home, so obviously I don't go home every weekend. Or you might be like my housemate who lives and Atlanta and never wants to go home. Skype, Facebook, and facetime are all good inventions to invest in if you are far from home. If you are the first child in your family, you should probably expect a lot of phone calls from home. This was hard for me because my mom is my best friend and it's rough not going to surprise her for lunch or just lay on her bed at night chatting about everything.
Not being as close to your best friend as you like. If you and your best friend are attending schools, it might be rough to adjust to that. For this matter, any friend of yours. You're not 15 minutes away from them and can't just hop in the car to go spend the night with them. It takes a lot of planning and a lot of work on both sides to keep up long distance friendships. That can be a hard thing to get used to as well.
Adjusting to doing a lot of things by yourself. Right now I can count 8 people around me who are doing things by themselves. Like I stated before- people have different schedules. It's not like high school where everyone gets out of class at the same time and you can walk to class together. Classes are not in the same building and everyone has different schedules. You can maybe have lunch with friends, but you will probably just meet up with them at the end of the day. You will also have to call the university or go to the doctors office by yourself or even go to the grocery store by yourself. A lot of people haven't done that before. You have to be confident and make sure you can take care of yourself.
The work load:
The work load really depends on the class. My math class took up homework, but my other classes could care less about homework. Some classes might have homework to help you for the test, but your teacher will never check it. Study guides aren't mandatory to fill out and turn in- it's up to you if you want to do it. The work load also depends on how much you want to succeed or amount of work you want to put into a class. I'm in history two right now and I know I have to read the book every night, make note cards and go to study sessions. I invest a lot of time into this class. My music appreciation class on the other hand, I just show up, take a few notes and I'm good to go for the test. The work load is pretty much as heavy or as light as you want to make it: it just all depends on what you want your grade to be.
The dining plan:
Auburn has a greaaaat variety of food. They have multiple food courts and food trucks that you can go to. There are also little places called "outtakes" that is like the inside of a gas station. It has your basics and can buy personal things there,too. If you live off campus then your dining plan will be $300. That sounds like a lot, but it will go fast. Everything is more expensive on campus. If I were you then I would make a schedule on when you know you will eat on campus that way you can make it last. During the spring semester I would eat lunch on campus on Tuesdays and Thursdays and I would eat dinner on campus only on Wednesdays. All the other days I would eat breakfast/dinner at home. People often bring their lunches so that's not weird to do. On campus students will have $900 to spend. Like I said above...it's easy to spend. I would bring a package of powerades (or any drink you want) and just some snack foods for the dorm. Maybe bread and peanut butter if you want to eat something light. You won't have room for a whole pantry of stuff and the only source of heat you will have is a microwave. Plus your fridge is small and you won't be able to put much in there either.
***STARBUCKS LOVERS PLEASE READ**** DO NOT WASTE ALL YOUR MONEY ON STARBUCKS. I made the mistake of doing this. It's a lot more expensive on campus. If you just want coffee, then go to ABP or the little place in Haley. They sell coffee for cheap and it's good. Spend your campus money on food. All of your campus money will be on a tiger card that you get at camp war eagle. Make sure you keep up with your card.
Once you run out of money you have two options: either your parents can add more or you pay for your food yourself. They accept most debit/credit cards and they accept cash. So make sure you spend your money wisely!!
I hope this helps you out a little!! If you have any questions or requests please feel free to ask below, comment on Facebook, or send me a message on Facebook! Hope you're getting excited!
-Dayna
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Move in day and Parking
I LOVE that y'all are starting to reply and ask questions! Two people pointed out two very important things that I've barely/haven't covered: Move in day and parking. I did a little thing about move in day last week, but I will try to go into more detail this week.
Move in day:
Imagine every dorm room. There's a lot. Now multiply that by two. That's a lot of students. Now add in two parents/relatives per student. That's A TON of people. Now imagine them all trying to haul things inside- everyone using the stairs and elevators. It's 90 degrees outside. There is no parking/limited time to get everything out of the car and into your dorm. Yes, it's VERY hectic. Auburn does a good job trying to organize it, but you can only organize it so much. I haven't lived in a dorm, but I've helped friends so I've witnessed it. Auburn will email you (if they haven't already) and tell you your move in day and time. People rushing will arrive a week earlier, but it's still hectic no matter what.
Once you get here at the correct time Auburn will pretty much direct you on where to park so you can unload. You will have to go and check in to get your key. That should be (don't quote me) in the main lobby of your dorm. My advice is not to pack a lot of small bags to carry in- try to pack larger tubs of items or even the clear see through smaller storage containers that can fit under your bed. It will take less trips and it won't be as bad/aggravating. See previous posts on what to pack/what not to pack. After you're done unpacking its pretty chill and you can say goodbye to everyone who has helped you move in and then you are on your own- GOOD LUCK!
Sorry if I'm not much help on this...I've just never had to experience it myself.
Parking:
LOL. LOLOLOL. Parking is a complete mess, unless you live in the village dorms. I'll post a picture below of where each parking zone can park. If you live in the hill or quad dorms- you're out of luck. There is no hope of you having close parking. More than likely you'll park in west parking which is out in the boonies. Weekends are a free for all, but most people will get there before you, so you'll end up not having a close spot. Village people have it made because their parking is right outside of their dorms...so be thankful.
A and B zone parking are for handicap, professors and other employees of the university. They are the closest ones to the university and the parking decks. Then there are C and PC parking. PC is a lot closer than C. PC is by the rec center (There are other ones, but that is the most popular). C zone is the farthest away and you might as well ride a bus instead of getting a C zone pass because it's just so far. Plus it's a lot cheaper. The prices (I think) are $100 for C zone and then you can be put into a lottery for PC zone for $150. They are chosen at random. The cheapest thing to do, in my opinion is ride the bus. If you live in the dorms, just accept the pass that they give you (You will get a RH pass which is out in the middle of nowhere aka west parking). Ride the bus on Friday afternoons to get your car and try to find a closer spot that way if you need to run errands or something its not 2 miles away. If you live in an apartment that has tigertransit line that runs (most do), then just take the bus. It's less of a walk to the campus and the cost already included into your tuition.
HOWEVER, my brother, who is a kineseology major has a C zone parking because it's right by his building. Remember he is a senior, though, and all of his classes are in the same building. If you have classes on the main part of campus I wouldn't recommend getting a pass.
During the week day (7am-5pm) you cannot park on campus unless you have a pass. After 5pm and on weekends there are no parking limits. Parking meters won't be put into effect and any zone is free. There are certain spots during the day that you can snag that are no parking zones, like behind chipotle and subway there are some free spots. Just make sure you read signs and make sure the curb isn't yellow: If the curb IS yellow or if there is a sign that says "24 hour towing zone" DO NOT PARK THERE. THEY WILL TOW YOU. If you park in a 15 minute parking zone with your flashers on- Make sure you're only there for 15 minutes. We have parking ninjas that will get ya. You think I'm kidding....try it...I dare you. They will catch you if you don't have a pass or are in a different parking zone, too. Trust me, when I say ninjas I mean it. You never see them lurking, but anyone breaking the rules ALWAYS gets caught and ALWAYS will get a ticket. No if, ands, or buts about it.
Apartment parking: make sure if you live in an apartment find out where guest parking is and tell anyone who is going to visit you. If you have a friend that lives in an apartment, make sure you know where guest parking is. The tow trucks are always towing people...and it's not cheap, either.
Just make sure you follow the rules and you should be good. If you have any more questions please let me know!
Or go to http://www.auburn.edu/administration/parking_transit/parking/parking-map.php for more parking information
Move in day:
Imagine every dorm room. There's a lot. Now multiply that by two. That's a lot of students. Now add in two parents/relatives per student. That's A TON of people. Now imagine them all trying to haul things inside- everyone using the stairs and elevators. It's 90 degrees outside. There is no parking/limited time to get everything out of the car and into your dorm. Yes, it's VERY hectic. Auburn does a good job trying to organize it, but you can only organize it so much. I haven't lived in a dorm, but I've helped friends so I've witnessed it. Auburn will email you (if they haven't already) and tell you your move in day and time. People rushing will arrive a week earlier, but it's still hectic no matter what.
Once you get here at the correct time Auburn will pretty much direct you on where to park so you can unload. You will have to go and check in to get your key. That should be (don't quote me) in the main lobby of your dorm. My advice is not to pack a lot of small bags to carry in- try to pack larger tubs of items or even the clear see through smaller storage containers that can fit under your bed. It will take less trips and it won't be as bad/aggravating. See previous posts on what to pack/what not to pack. After you're done unpacking its pretty chill and you can say goodbye to everyone who has helped you move in and then you are on your own- GOOD LUCK!
Sorry if I'm not much help on this...I've just never had to experience it myself.
Parking:
LOL. LOLOLOL. Parking is a complete mess, unless you live in the village dorms. I'll post a picture below of where each parking zone can park. If you live in the hill or quad dorms- you're out of luck. There is no hope of you having close parking. More than likely you'll park in west parking which is out in the boonies. Weekends are a free for all, but most people will get there before you, so you'll end up not having a close spot. Village people have it made because their parking is right outside of their dorms...so be thankful.
A and B zone parking are for handicap, professors and other employees of the university. They are the closest ones to the university and the parking decks. Then there are C and PC parking. PC is a lot closer than C. PC is by the rec center (There are other ones, but that is the most popular). C zone is the farthest away and you might as well ride a bus instead of getting a C zone pass because it's just so far. Plus it's a lot cheaper. The prices (I think) are $100 for C zone and then you can be put into a lottery for PC zone for $150. They are chosen at random. The cheapest thing to do, in my opinion is ride the bus. If you live in the dorms, just accept the pass that they give you (You will get a RH pass which is out in the middle of nowhere aka west parking). Ride the bus on Friday afternoons to get your car and try to find a closer spot that way if you need to run errands or something its not 2 miles away. If you live in an apartment that has tigertransit line that runs (most do), then just take the bus. It's less of a walk to the campus and the cost already included into your tuition.
HOWEVER, my brother, who is a kineseology major has a C zone parking because it's right by his building. Remember he is a senior, though, and all of his classes are in the same building. If you have classes on the main part of campus I wouldn't recommend getting a pass.
During the week day (7am-5pm) you cannot park on campus unless you have a pass. After 5pm and on weekends there are no parking limits. Parking meters won't be put into effect and any zone is free. There are certain spots during the day that you can snag that are no parking zones, like behind chipotle and subway there are some free spots. Just make sure you read signs and make sure the curb isn't yellow: If the curb IS yellow or if there is a sign that says "24 hour towing zone" DO NOT PARK THERE. THEY WILL TOW YOU. If you park in a 15 minute parking zone with your flashers on- Make sure you're only there for 15 minutes. We have parking ninjas that will get ya. You think I'm kidding....try it...I dare you. They will catch you if you don't have a pass or are in a different parking zone, too. Trust me, when I say ninjas I mean it. You never see them lurking, but anyone breaking the rules ALWAYS gets caught and ALWAYS will get a ticket. No if, ands, or buts about it.
Apartment parking: make sure if you live in an apartment find out where guest parking is and tell anyone who is going to visit you. If you have a friend that lives in an apartment, make sure you know where guest parking is. The tow trucks are always towing people...and it's not cheap, either.
Just make sure you follow the rules and you should be good. If you have any more questions please let me know!
Or go to http://www.auburn.edu/administration/parking_transit/parking/parking-map.php for more parking information
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Classroom etiquette
Hey y'all! Today's post will be about classroom etiquette, by request. Shout out to Tori for sending in a request! Thank you! Also here is a shout out for everyone who has texted, messaged and commented thanking me for posting...it really makes me happy to know I'm helping y'all out. I'm going to give a few basic rules since it is mostly the same as high school.
1. Absolutely no cell phones
Some people like to play on their phones, but quite frankly its downright disrespectful. Not only does it distract you, but it distracts the people around you as well. It all depends on the class as well, I had one professor who had a rule to have no cell phones out in class. He actually would ask people to put it away or to leave class. Another professor had TA's walk around and write down the names of people who were texting and took off points from our attendance grade at the end of the year. I do it out of respect and if I go and talk to them to bump up my grade, they would do it more willingly (if they did it at all) because they saw that I was actively listening and paying attention during the lectures rather than playing/texting on my cell phone.
2. Stay on task when using computers
This one is easy for me to not follow. I like to check my email, my grades, my facebook...I really have to stay disciplined when I use my computer for notes. If I notice myself getting off task I just turn off my wifi. This also goes with the no cell phone rule- its out of respect. It also will help you pay attention and get better notes=better grade.
3. Don't talk, but participate.
I say don't talk as in don't whisper and make comments to your neighbor during the lectures. I have a VERY flamboyant teacher and after anything he says the guys behind me always has to make a rude remark. It is very distracting. I do encourage you to participate, though. It will help yourself understand the material and it will help your teacher know if they are projecting the material correctly. My biology teacher noticed that because we weren't answering questions quickly that we were confused and he didn't teach the material as well because we were normally very fast and accurate with answers to his questions. However PLEASE for the love of ALL your classmates, I repeat PLEASE do NOT be that annoying person that has to contradict or comment on any and everything that your teacher says. Raising your hand is appropriate in some classes, but not in others. It depends on class size/the teacher. Just see what everyone else does or what the teacher asks you to do.
4. Be on time
It is annoying when your teacher is in mid-sentence and someone walks in and tries to quietly close the door (you can never quietly close the door, so don't make that face like "I'm sorry" and stand there for 5 minutes trying to close the door) It is also, yet again, disrespectful to the professor.
5. Eating
Most professors are cool with people eating/snacking in class because everyone is bound to have a weird schedule and has to eat at weird times. However, please don't bring in the loud packaging. Like the door, don't try to open it slowly....its just as loud, but takes forever.
Its pretty much the same as high school. There are less actual rules, but most are unspoken. Just use your common sense and view yourself in the third person. You don't want to be that person that you hate during class.
**TIP** I just discovered this so I'm sharing it with you. I've seen many people record lectures on Macs, but didn't know how to do it with PC. If you have google chrome, go to apps and type in "record" and there will be a few apps that will come up that you can download (if you have a built in microphone). I use Mic-Note. It is easy and very convenient when you can't recall what your teacher said during class. I record the lecture, take notes,study the book and take my own notes. It's up to you how you succeed, but there are a few different examples that can help you out.
If you have any other questions that you want me to answer please feel free to comment or message me. Love y'all and can't wait until you're here!
-Dayna
1. Absolutely no cell phones
Some people like to play on their phones, but quite frankly its downright disrespectful. Not only does it distract you, but it distracts the people around you as well. It all depends on the class as well, I had one professor who had a rule to have no cell phones out in class. He actually would ask people to put it away or to leave class. Another professor had TA's walk around and write down the names of people who were texting and took off points from our attendance grade at the end of the year. I do it out of respect and if I go and talk to them to bump up my grade, they would do it more willingly (if they did it at all) because they saw that I was actively listening and paying attention during the lectures rather than playing/texting on my cell phone.
2. Stay on task when using computers
This one is easy for me to not follow. I like to check my email, my grades, my facebook...I really have to stay disciplined when I use my computer for notes. If I notice myself getting off task I just turn off my wifi. This also goes with the no cell phone rule- its out of respect. It also will help you pay attention and get better notes=better grade.
3. Don't talk, but participate.
I say don't talk as in don't whisper and make comments to your neighbor during the lectures. I have a VERY flamboyant teacher and after anything he says the guys behind me always has to make a rude remark. It is very distracting. I do encourage you to participate, though. It will help yourself understand the material and it will help your teacher know if they are projecting the material correctly. My biology teacher noticed that because we weren't answering questions quickly that we were confused and he didn't teach the material as well because we were normally very fast and accurate with answers to his questions. However PLEASE for the love of ALL your classmates, I repeat PLEASE do NOT be that annoying person that has to contradict or comment on any and everything that your teacher says. Raising your hand is appropriate in some classes, but not in others. It depends on class size/the teacher. Just see what everyone else does or what the teacher asks you to do.
4. Be on time
It is annoying when your teacher is in mid-sentence and someone walks in and tries to quietly close the door (you can never quietly close the door, so don't make that face like "I'm sorry" and stand there for 5 minutes trying to close the door) It is also, yet again, disrespectful to the professor.
5. Eating
Most professors are cool with people eating/snacking in class because everyone is bound to have a weird schedule and has to eat at weird times. However, please don't bring in the loud packaging. Like the door, don't try to open it slowly....its just as loud, but takes forever.
Its pretty much the same as high school. There are less actual rules, but most are unspoken. Just use your common sense and view yourself in the third person. You don't want to be that person that you hate during class.
**TIP** I just discovered this so I'm sharing it with you. I've seen many people record lectures on Macs, but didn't know how to do it with PC. If you have google chrome, go to apps and type in "record" and there will be a few apps that will come up that you can download (if you have a built in microphone). I use Mic-Note. It is easy and very convenient when you can't recall what your teacher said during class. I record the lecture, take notes,study the book and take my own notes. It's up to you how you succeed, but there are a few different examples that can help you out.
If you have any other questions that you want me to answer please feel free to comment or message me. Love y'all and can't wait until you're here!
-Dayna
Monday, June 23, 2014
DOUBLE POST!
Hi y'all! I'm going to do a double post this week to somewhat make up for lost time. I've been busy with my puppy and new summer classes. So....I've requested a more experienced person to help co-write this post. MY BROTHER!! He is a senior here at Auburn majoring in Physical Activity and Health. Today we're going to have two subjects: What to bring and what not to bring to school for the fall semester AND What to expect for the first week of classes...(and what to expect after that, too!)
1. What to bring and what not to bring is one of the biggest questions y'all have now. If you have been to Camp War Eagle, I'm sure they've told you what to bring or not bring, but I'm going to give you this advice from the outside. Plus a lot of the internet/pinterest pictures show a lot of unnecessary items.
What to bring:
-Pillows, blankets and twin XL sheets (for dorms) I'd bring extra blankets because you're not sure how your roommate likes the room temperature.
-Bike! Most of your classes are in the center of campus, but if you live in the Hill or Village it would be really smart to have a bike. (Remember to sign up for your FREE, but necessary bike permit. You can find this under the tiger-i tab in au access) Don't forget a lock for your bike as well!
-Towels for pool and shower use (bathing suit for pool as well)
- Card games for rainy days/boring nights. It's up to you to fight with your parents on the video gaming systems because CWE counselors tell your parents not to allow you to bring them...If you are very distracted and not self-disciplined, don't bring them. You really need to focus on classes this semester. As my history professor told us this morning, "This ain't high school anymore." You can bring one next semester if you feel comfortable about it.
-Definitely double check with your roommate on what they are bringing so you don't have double of everything or you're not missing something. (mini-fridge, tv)
-Storage bins. You can use them for anything and everything....(dad will thank you during move in)
-Hangers! Most people forget these. The drawers aren't big in the dorms, either.
-Rain boots/jacket...Auburn has a nasty habit of randomly raining for only an hour without warning.
-IF YOU LIVE OUTSIDE OF 4 HOURS AWAY IGNORE THIS!
-Bring a few sweatshirts, sweatpants, jeans and warmer weather clothes for the fall. Obviously y'all know that it starts getting cold late October so you can go home and get clothes then. It will save you a lot of space for the dorms.
- new tennis shoes. You'll be walking A LOT!
- any sporting item that you'll use: baseball glove, tennis racket, football, Frisbee, etc.
-Power strip...it will come in handy with computer chargers, printers, phone charger, etc.
What not to bring:
-Too many (if any) dorm decorations. Save that for the apartment that you'll get later on. Its too much money, too much space and too much of a hassle. Yeah its fun and cute, but who stays in their room anyways? (Rugs might be nice during the winter, but they also just collect everything and get nasty really quickly)
-School supplies. You can bring stuff you already have like a book bag and calculator, but leave the paper, binders, pencils, and other stuff to buy in the bookstore.
-Any large furniture like bookshelves, big chairs, and additional drawers. Learn to live light your first year.
-Groceries. You can get that here at kroger or winn-dixie. That way you don't have to worry about squishing the bread or keeping any items cold. Do this also for toiletries. Don't want lotion all over your comforter!
-too many people for move in...will talk more about this later on in the post.
-Pots/pans/kitchen stuff.
If you have ANY questions on whether or not you should bring something just comment on here or shoot me a message on facebook!
2.) What to expect the first week or two of campus:
I WILL NOW TURN THIS OVER TO MY BIG BRUDDER!!!! TAKE IT AWAY BRO!
Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.
MOVE IN!!!
Move-in at Auburn University reminds me of (insert here) zombie movie when the disease first starts spreading. People will be going everywhere, roadblocks, a million officials who are walking around who have no clue what is going on, timetables etc. Move-in needs to be a tactical military operation for you and your family. Pack light (as seen above). It will be hot (for sure) hectic (for sure) and if tradition holds true from the past 2 years, rainy. The less you have to unpack the better. Less trips, the better. Don't bring every family member you have seen in the past 4 years either, get all the goodbyes in from extended family during a "going away" party or something. If they have to come, drop them off downtown and tell them to get in the atmosphere and meet you in a couple hours. Also, if you get assigned to a higher floor and you are going to use the elevator, don't be that person that takes up the whole elevator with a million un-necessary things. Save yourself and the people around you the hassle.
Night of Move-In
You will miss your family a little, but you will also have a feeling of freedom, power, youth, and whatever else 80's movie feel-good ending feelings. Guys, you will want to check out the hawt college girls and girls you are going to want to do the same about the guyz. This is what Welcome Week is for. Save that first night or two to get to know your room mate and your surroundings. Campus may seem big, sprawling and intimidating but in reality, it is actually not so bad. First night, settle-in and really get to know your room-mate and suite-mates. You are going to be living with them for the next 30 weeks, lay down some ground rules. Don't be shy, if you have an issue, air it out, last thing you want is to be miserable over something seemingly so simple.
Welcome-Week/Week before classes
Walk your schedule. Learn the fastest route between your classes. Go to the Welcome-Week activities, they may seem cheesy but they are a great place to meet people, get numbers, and fill up your facebook with people who save you for a month then you forget and later delete during the infamous purges. Each day again, walk your schedule at the times that you would have these classes, make it automatic in your brain because when 20,000+ people are going to their classes too, you will be a little intimidated, I promise. Find a bike rack that has some kind of shelter so your poor bike won't get constantly soaked during the random pop-up showers. Find some friends and discuss classes/times/teachers as you don't want to be the lone face in a crowd of 300 people sitting in an auditorium waiting impatiently for some unknown figure known as "professor" to walk in, slam down their bag, write their name on the board, and start reading the syllabus.
First Week of Classes!
Also known as Syllabus week. Use this week to learn whether or not if you actually need your textbooks for certain classes ( see earlier post about textbooks ) I will now give you a few tips/tricks for each genre of class to help prepare you mentally on how to handle this stuff
English
Go in there and sit somewhere in the front quarter of the classroom. Make your face visible. But most of all, if you don't like English/Writing and have to take it even though you are going to one day be a rocket scientist, do this (worked for me). Learn to get in the mindset of some lovey-dovey scarf-wearing dreamer poet you find and laugh at in the corner of any given coffee shop. Take everything the teacher has to say in a sense of that it actually matters when to you it may not. Convince that teacher that you enjoy the subject, I even played a game with myself on trying to make answers to the teacher's questions as outlandish, crazy, but believable as possible. It was so fun knowing I was totally bull-crapping my answers to her in-class discussions and her replying "that is very insightful".
History
You will get one of two archetypes of history professor. Cool or uncool. Uncool ones, like mine will fill up your classtime with liberal trash and stories about their conception in the back of their parent's pick-up truck. Cool ones, like I have had friends have, will fill class time with awesome stories of secret missions during certain wars or cool secrets from ancient China. Pray for the latter.
Biology
These, in my experience, have been the best kind of Basics teachers. They are so interested in life, and cool secrets about the biological world and cannot wait to see your faces light-up when they entertain you with these little nuggets of brilliance. I never had a bad bio teacher. Hard, yes, bad, no.
Chemistry
Prepare thyself, its' gon' suck. You took high school chemistry? Cool!! you took the first week of college chemistry in a whole semester of high school, give yourself a pat on the back. This course is fast-paced and difficult. Make the best of it, even Steve Schwann the lab overseer, and for the love of all things holy, DO NOT WEAR OPEN TOED SHOES TO LAB.
Music Appreciation
I know the subtext of the class is not nap-time, however tempting it may be, go. It is not hard and do not procrastinate on going to your required performances. Get those done early.
Math (of any kind)
Most freshman level math teachers are graduate students. They have not had any courses in teaching and most of the time it is their first time standing in front of a group of kids only a few years younger than themselves. They will be nervous, choppy, and sometimes wrong. Just stay cool with them and do your homework. If you need extra help, there are plenty of tutors for this subject. to help you get through knowing the rate at which the angle is decreasing between the airplane and the 100 foot tall control tower standing 4 miles away.
Physics
See math but replace the young teacher with an old one who cares nothing about entry level coursework because they are too busy with 4th dimension research. Also in-vision a lab TA who doesn't know English as a second or even 5th language.
Intro to (insert your major here)
Here lies your little nugget of salvation. The one hour once a week course that gives you a sneak peek into your future and gets you all excited before you have to trudge off onto (insert least favorite subject here)
I may make it sound bad, but always prepare for the worst. The first couple years are meant to suck because college is a business and if they can get $24,000+ of your money and you leave before the good part happens, their business strategy worked. Suffer through it and make the most of every situation so you can get to your major and get to the classes you understand and want to pursue and use for the rest of your life.
College is a life experience you have earned by being successful up until now. Prove to yourself and your family that you will continue being successful. Your A's may now turn into B's or C's but Auburn is rated among the top 5 hardest schools to earn an A in. You signed up for the challenge, embrace it. Feel proud that you are earning your degree and not buying it. GO TO CLASS, I promise it isn't awful bad and the more you go the more you learn so hey, the easier tests get (theoretically).
1. What to bring and what not to bring is one of the biggest questions y'all have now. If you have been to Camp War Eagle, I'm sure they've told you what to bring or not bring, but I'm going to give you this advice from the outside. Plus a lot of the internet/pinterest pictures show a lot of unnecessary items.
What to bring:
-Pillows, blankets and twin XL sheets (for dorms) I'd bring extra blankets because you're not sure how your roommate likes the room temperature.
-Bike! Most of your classes are in the center of campus, but if you live in the Hill or Village it would be really smart to have a bike. (Remember to sign up for your FREE, but necessary bike permit. You can find this under the tiger-i tab in au access) Don't forget a lock for your bike as well!
-Towels for pool and shower use (bathing suit for pool as well)
- Card games for rainy days/boring nights. It's up to you to fight with your parents on the video gaming systems because CWE counselors tell your parents not to allow you to bring them...If you are very distracted and not self-disciplined, don't bring them. You really need to focus on classes this semester. As my history professor told us this morning, "This ain't high school anymore." You can bring one next semester if you feel comfortable about it.
-Definitely double check with your roommate on what they are bringing so you don't have double of everything or you're not missing something. (mini-fridge, tv)
-Storage bins. You can use them for anything and everything....(dad will thank you during move in)
-Hangers! Most people forget these. The drawers aren't big in the dorms, either.
-Rain boots/jacket...Auburn has a nasty habit of randomly raining for only an hour without warning.
-IF YOU LIVE OUTSIDE OF 4 HOURS AWAY IGNORE THIS!
-Bring a few sweatshirts, sweatpants, jeans and warmer weather clothes for the fall. Obviously y'all know that it starts getting cold late October so you can go home and get clothes then. It will save you a lot of space for the dorms.
- new tennis shoes. You'll be walking A LOT!
- any sporting item that you'll use: baseball glove, tennis racket, football, Frisbee, etc.
-Power strip...it will come in handy with computer chargers, printers, phone charger, etc.
What not to bring:
-Too many (if any) dorm decorations. Save that for the apartment that you'll get later on. Its too much money, too much space and too much of a hassle. Yeah its fun and cute, but who stays in their room anyways? (Rugs might be nice during the winter, but they also just collect everything and get nasty really quickly)
-School supplies. You can bring stuff you already have like a book bag and calculator, but leave the paper, binders, pencils, and other stuff to buy in the bookstore.
-Any large furniture like bookshelves, big chairs, and additional drawers. Learn to live light your first year.
-Groceries. You can get that here at kroger or winn-dixie. That way you don't have to worry about squishing the bread or keeping any items cold. Do this also for toiletries. Don't want lotion all over your comforter!
-too many people for move in...will talk more about this later on in the post.
-Pots/pans/kitchen stuff.
If you have ANY questions on whether or not you should bring something just comment on here or shoot me a message on facebook!
2.) What to expect the first week or two of campus:
I WILL NOW TURN THIS OVER TO MY BIG BRUDDER!!!! TAKE IT AWAY BRO!
Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.
MOVE IN!!!
Move-in at Auburn University reminds me of (insert here) zombie movie when the disease first starts spreading. People will be going everywhere, roadblocks, a million officials who are walking around who have no clue what is going on, timetables etc. Move-in needs to be a tactical military operation for you and your family. Pack light (as seen above). It will be hot (for sure) hectic (for sure) and if tradition holds true from the past 2 years, rainy. The less you have to unpack the better. Less trips, the better. Don't bring every family member you have seen in the past 4 years either, get all the goodbyes in from extended family during a "going away" party or something. If they have to come, drop them off downtown and tell them to get in the atmosphere and meet you in a couple hours. Also, if you get assigned to a higher floor and you are going to use the elevator, don't be that person that takes up the whole elevator with a million un-necessary things. Save yourself and the people around you the hassle.
Night of Move-In
You will miss your family a little, but you will also have a feeling of freedom, power, youth, and whatever else 80's movie feel-good ending feelings. Guys, you will want to check out the hawt college girls and girls you are going to want to do the same about the guyz. This is what Welcome Week is for. Save that first night or two to get to know your room mate and your surroundings. Campus may seem big, sprawling and intimidating but in reality, it is actually not so bad. First night, settle-in and really get to know your room-mate and suite-mates. You are going to be living with them for the next 30 weeks, lay down some ground rules. Don't be shy, if you have an issue, air it out, last thing you want is to be miserable over something seemingly so simple.
Welcome-Week/Week before classes
Walk your schedule. Learn the fastest route between your classes. Go to the Welcome-Week activities, they may seem cheesy but they are a great place to meet people, get numbers, and fill up your facebook with people who save you for a month then you forget and later delete during the infamous purges. Each day again, walk your schedule at the times that you would have these classes, make it automatic in your brain because when 20,000+ people are going to their classes too, you will be a little intimidated, I promise. Find a bike rack that has some kind of shelter so your poor bike won't get constantly soaked during the random pop-up showers. Find some friends and discuss classes/times/teachers as you don't want to be the lone face in a crowd of 300 people sitting in an auditorium waiting impatiently for some unknown figure known as "professor" to walk in, slam down their bag, write their name on the board, and start reading the syllabus.
First Week of Classes!
Also known as Syllabus week. Use this week to learn whether or not if you actually need your textbooks for certain classes ( see earlier post about textbooks ) I will now give you a few tips/tricks for each genre of class to help prepare you mentally on how to handle this stuff
English
Go in there and sit somewhere in the front quarter of the classroom. Make your face visible. But most of all, if you don't like English/Writing and have to take it even though you are going to one day be a rocket scientist, do this (worked for me). Learn to get in the mindset of some lovey-dovey scarf-wearing dreamer poet you find and laugh at in the corner of any given coffee shop. Take everything the teacher has to say in a sense of that it actually matters when to you it may not. Convince that teacher that you enjoy the subject, I even played a game with myself on trying to make answers to the teacher's questions as outlandish, crazy, but believable as possible. It was so fun knowing I was totally bull-crapping my answers to her in-class discussions and her replying "that is very insightful".
History
You will get one of two archetypes of history professor. Cool or uncool. Uncool ones, like mine will fill up your classtime with liberal trash and stories about their conception in the back of their parent's pick-up truck. Cool ones, like I have had friends have, will fill class time with awesome stories of secret missions during certain wars or cool secrets from ancient China. Pray for the latter.
Biology
These, in my experience, have been the best kind of Basics teachers. They are so interested in life, and cool secrets about the biological world and cannot wait to see your faces light-up when they entertain you with these little nuggets of brilliance. I never had a bad bio teacher. Hard, yes, bad, no.
Chemistry
Prepare thyself, its' gon' suck. You took high school chemistry? Cool!! you took the first week of college chemistry in a whole semester of high school, give yourself a pat on the back. This course is fast-paced and difficult. Make the best of it, even Steve Schwann the lab overseer, and for the love of all things holy, DO NOT WEAR OPEN TOED SHOES TO LAB.
Music Appreciation
I know the subtext of the class is not nap-time, however tempting it may be, go. It is not hard and do not procrastinate on going to your required performances. Get those done early.
Math (of any kind)
Most freshman level math teachers are graduate students. They have not had any courses in teaching and most of the time it is their first time standing in front of a group of kids only a few years younger than themselves. They will be nervous, choppy, and sometimes wrong. Just stay cool with them and do your homework. If you need extra help, there are plenty of tutors for this subject. to help you get through knowing the rate at which the angle is decreasing between the airplane and the 100 foot tall control tower standing 4 miles away.
Physics
See math but replace the young teacher with an old one who cares nothing about entry level coursework because they are too busy with 4th dimension research. Also in-vision a lab TA who doesn't know English as a second or even 5th language.
Intro to (insert your major here)
Here lies your little nugget of salvation. The one hour once a week course that gives you a sneak peek into your future and gets you all excited before you have to trudge off onto (insert least favorite subject here)
I may make it sound bad, but always prepare for the worst. The first couple years are meant to suck because college is a business and if they can get $24,000+ of your money and you leave before the good part happens, their business strategy worked. Suffer through it and make the most of every situation so you can get to your major and get to the classes you understand and want to pursue and use for the rest of your life.
College is a life experience you have earned by being successful up until now. Prove to yourself and your family that you will continue being successful. Your A's may now turn into B's or C's but Auburn is rated among the top 5 hardest schools to earn an A in. You signed up for the challenge, embrace it. Feel proud that you are earning your degree and not buying it. GO TO CLASS, I promise it isn't awful bad and the more you go the more you learn so hey, the easier tests get (theoretically).
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
I'M SO SORRY!
Hi all :)
First of all I want to apologize for missing so much! I had finals and then I had to drive home (12 hours) then a wedding, so I've been busy. I'm sorry! I've had lots of stuff to think about, though. Today I'm going to discuss using your resources.
One thing I want to stress is to definitely use your resources that the university gives to you. Not only are most free, but it's very helpful and beneficial for you.
The first thing I want to mention that Auburn has is the Miller Writing Center. This is located in the library and it is a great resource! You can go sign up or make an appointment and they read over a paper you have written and give you some advice about it. Don't completely abuse this resource, but it is definitely a good thing to go to before you turn in a final paper. I haven't used the writing center yet because I've not had a writing class yet, but I've heard great reviews about the Miller Writing Center- check it out! Not only does it help you, but I heard that they e-mail your professor letting them know that you went there and some professors give you extra credit for doing that!
Use your advisor! Mine is actually awful, so I sought the help of another one, but not all advisors are terrible. If you have any questions or concerns, most are willing to help you out and will guide you in the right direction. Don't be scared to go and see them, that is what they are there for! They will definitely be a resource that will benefit you more then you can imagine. Yet again, don't abuse it by being psycho and go to see them once a week, but make sure you go to see them to make sure you are on the right track and doing what you need to do.
The next thing is SI sessions. I don't remember if I mentioned this to you or not. SI sessions are student led and are very helpful. My biology and history classes both had SI sessions and they were very beneficial. They handed out mini tests to study and helped answer any questions I had about the material we learned in class. They write down your name every time you attend and at the end of the semester and give it to the professor. Some professors give extra credit for this or they will bump up your grade because they saw that you were trying your best to comprehend the information and that you were being a good student.
If you don't use SI sessions- use your friends to help study! Make friends in classes so later on you can get a study group together. Everyone takes different notes so it's really helpful to put together all of your notes to compare. I did this for my biology final and I ended up making an A on the exam. We also had fun doing it. We made pancakes, laughed, but still studied. It was nice having people to rely on when I missed class, too. There were a few times I was sick (or "sick") and couldn't go to class so I would just text one of my friends and ask them to send me the notes that they take. They could rely on me to do the same thing for them as well.
I've told you multiple times about talking to your professor. So use that resource, too. See previous posts for more information- or leave a question on here or message me on facebook :)
If you have a rough time in a certain subject and the previous resources don't help then there are two other options. One of the two is going to the library and signing up for a study buddy. It is normally an older student that does very well with that subject and they will coach you through it for free, which is really nice. The second option is to hire a tutor. I see multiple tutors around the library. I heard one say they run $10-$15 per session. That could get expensive, but they sounded like they were very helpful. So that could be a last resort if you need. Don't be ashamed if you struggle, accept it and get help. Not going to lie, my brother is my ultimate resource :)
USE YOUR TIGER CARD! This is one resource many people over use, but there are some that don't use it at all. I've talked previously about the tiger card so make sure you read previous posts if you haven't read about it.
The language lab on the third floor of the Haley center is wonderful. It is quiet, open from 7-7 and has many computers. If you need to print something it is 7 cents per paper printed. It can add up and get expensive, but it is totally worth it if you don't have a printer or if you are on campus and need to print something out immediately. Same goes for Copy Cat in the Student Center. There you can make copies or print something out. It is more popular and there are less computers than the language lab, but either way it gets the job done. There is also the bookstore in the Haley Center that can print or fax things. The last place is the Study ER in the library- you can print stuff and fax stuff from there as well.
I think this is all the resources I can think of right now. I hope this is helpful! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask on here or message me on facebook...I'd LOVE to hear from you! You can also suggest anything you would want to hear about/ want me to talk about.
xoxoxox,
Dayna
First of all I want to apologize for missing so much! I had finals and then I had to drive home (12 hours) then a wedding, so I've been busy. I'm sorry! I've had lots of stuff to think about, though. Today I'm going to discuss using your resources.
One thing I want to stress is to definitely use your resources that the university gives to you. Not only are most free, but it's very helpful and beneficial for you.
The first thing I want to mention that Auburn has is the Miller Writing Center. This is located in the library and it is a great resource! You can go sign up or make an appointment and they read over a paper you have written and give you some advice about it. Don't completely abuse this resource, but it is definitely a good thing to go to before you turn in a final paper. I haven't used the writing center yet because I've not had a writing class yet, but I've heard great reviews about the Miller Writing Center- check it out! Not only does it help you, but I heard that they e-mail your professor letting them know that you went there and some professors give you extra credit for doing that!
Use your advisor! Mine is actually awful, so I sought the help of another one, but not all advisors are terrible. If you have any questions or concerns, most are willing to help you out and will guide you in the right direction. Don't be scared to go and see them, that is what they are there for! They will definitely be a resource that will benefit you more then you can imagine. Yet again, don't abuse it by being psycho and go to see them once a week, but make sure you go to see them to make sure you are on the right track and doing what you need to do.
The next thing is SI sessions. I don't remember if I mentioned this to you or not. SI sessions are student led and are very helpful. My biology and history classes both had SI sessions and they were very beneficial. They handed out mini tests to study and helped answer any questions I had about the material we learned in class. They write down your name every time you attend and at the end of the semester and give it to the professor. Some professors give extra credit for this or they will bump up your grade because they saw that you were trying your best to comprehend the information and that you were being a good student.
If you don't use SI sessions- use your friends to help study! Make friends in classes so later on you can get a study group together. Everyone takes different notes so it's really helpful to put together all of your notes to compare. I did this for my biology final and I ended up making an A on the exam. We also had fun doing it. We made pancakes, laughed, but still studied. It was nice having people to rely on when I missed class, too. There were a few times I was sick (or "sick") and couldn't go to class so I would just text one of my friends and ask them to send me the notes that they take. They could rely on me to do the same thing for them as well.
I've told you multiple times about talking to your professor. So use that resource, too. See previous posts for more information- or leave a question on here or message me on facebook :)
If you have a rough time in a certain subject and the previous resources don't help then there are two other options. One of the two is going to the library and signing up for a study buddy. It is normally an older student that does very well with that subject and they will coach you through it for free, which is really nice. The second option is to hire a tutor. I see multiple tutors around the library. I heard one say they run $10-$15 per session. That could get expensive, but they sounded like they were very helpful. So that could be a last resort if you need. Don't be ashamed if you struggle, accept it and get help. Not going to lie, my brother is my ultimate resource :)
USE YOUR TIGER CARD! This is one resource many people over use, but there are some that don't use it at all. I've talked previously about the tiger card so make sure you read previous posts if you haven't read about it.
The language lab on the third floor of the Haley center is wonderful. It is quiet, open from 7-7 and has many computers. If you need to print something it is 7 cents per paper printed. It can add up and get expensive, but it is totally worth it if you don't have a printer or if you are on campus and need to print something out immediately. Same goes for Copy Cat in the Student Center. There you can make copies or print something out. It is more popular and there are less computers than the language lab, but either way it gets the job done. There is also the bookstore in the Haley Center that can print or fax things. The last place is the Study ER in the library- you can print stuff and fax stuff from there as well.
I think this is all the resources I can think of right now. I hope this is helpful! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask on here or message me on facebook...I'd LOVE to hear from you! You can also suggest anything you would want to hear about/ want me to talk about.
xoxoxox,
Dayna
Monday, April 21, 2014
Books
Hi all! This week and next is going to be soooo hectic, so I'd appreciate it if you could pray for me. This weekend really got me thinking about books. Books are one of the most expensive things you have to buy at college so I'm going to give you a few tips about books. I know that my books were over $400 just this semester (some used, some new, some borrowed)...so here is some advice on how to save some money.
Buying:
1. Rent instead of buying. If you aren't intending on keeping your books after the semester, just rent them. Many stores allows you to rent instead of buying them.
2. Check out chegg.com for some great deals! I've never used this website, but many of my friends have and they have all given it great reviews!
3. Borrow from an older sibling/friend. One of my friends is giving me all of her old text books that she isn't going to use anymore.
4. Buy used books. I was skeptical at first, but I have 2 books that were used and they actually help a lot. The person before me has underlined and highlighted all the important stuff that I should pay attention to for tests.
5. Buy the online ebook. I'm not much of a technology person so I don't use this route, but if you don't want to carry books around then this might be for you. Sometimes ebooks are cheaper than the actual text book.
6. Go to class first or read the syllabus before you purchase your books. I didn't buy a book for one of my classes because the teacher told us that all the information will come from his lectures and not the book. Sometimes the book can help reinforce if you're not a good note taker, but most of the time the professor is a great lecturer and you don't need the book.
Selling books:
1. If someone is selling you a book make sure you check the price of the actual book. Some people try to scam you.
2. If you want to sell books at the end of the semester make sure you price things fairly. Think about the other person- be the nice guy.
3. Try exchanging books that way nobody is out of money. For freshman/sophomores, many have the same books and can swap each semester. Just check with your friends and see if they have what you need and vice versa.
I hope this helps a little! Make sure you price check many stores online and around campus before you make your final purchase...it can definitely save you a lot of money.
Buying:
1. Rent instead of buying. If you aren't intending on keeping your books after the semester, just rent them. Many stores allows you to rent instead of buying them.
2. Check out chegg.com for some great deals! I've never used this website, but many of my friends have and they have all given it great reviews!
3. Borrow from an older sibling/friend. One of my friends is giving me all of her old text books that she isn't going to use anymore.
4. Buy used books. I was skeptical at first, but I have 2 books that were used and they actually help a lot. The person before me has underlined and highlighted all the important stuff that I should pay attention to for tests.
5. Buy the online ebook. I'm not much of a technology person so I don't use this route, but if you don't want to carry books around then this might be for you. Sometimes ebooks are cheaper than the actual text book.
6. Go to class first or read the syllabus before you purchase your books. I didn't buy a book for one of my classes because the teacher told us that all the information will come from his lectures and not the book. Sometimes the book can help reinforce if you're not a good note taker, but most of the time the professor is a great lecturer and you don't need the book.
Selling books:
1. If someone is selling you a book make sure you check the price of the actual book. Some people try to scam you.
2. If you want to sell books at the end of the semester make sure you price things fairly. Think about the other person- be the nice guy.
3. Try exchanging books that way nobody is out of money. For freshman/sophomores, many have the same books and can swap each semester. Just check with your friends and see if they have what you need and vice versa.
I hope this helps a little! Make sure you price check many stores online and around campus before you make your final purchase...it can definitely save you a lot of money.
Monday, April 14, 2014
On campus living/off campus living
Hi y'all! Sorry I haven't posted in a while. It's been super busy! I have papers due and tests and ahhhhhh. CRAZY! Anyways, I thought I should talk to you about where to live and the benefits.
On-Campus living
Benefits:
-Get to know people easy! (roommates, sweet mates and people in your building)
-Convenient to on-campus activities
-Close to library (except people who live in the village)
-Close to classes
-More campus dining money!
Off-Campus
Benefits:
-Laundry!! I like being able to do my laundry whenever and for as long as I want. I don't have to sit with my laundry in a dark creepy basement
-Cooking. You can cook whatever you want whenever you want.
-Quiet (most of the time)
-Pool (some apartment complexes)
-Room to yourself
-Sometimes a bathroom to yourself
-Car is always close
-Guests can come/go as they please. No hassle like dorms
There are a lot of things to consider when living on/off campus. I'd love to hear from you! Write a comment or facebook message me to let me know what you want to hear more about! Feel free to ask questions!
On-Campus living
Benefits:
-Get to know people easy! (roommates, sweet mates and people in your building)
-Convenient to on-campus activities
-Close to library (except people who live in the village)
-Close to classes
-More campus dining money!
Off-Campus
Benefits:
-Laundry!! I like being able to do my laundry whenever and for as long as I want. I don't have to sit with my laundry in a dark creepy basement
-Cooking. You can cook whatever you want whenever you want.
-Quiet (most of the time)
-Pool (some apartment complexes)
-Room to yourself
-Sometimes a bathroom to yourself
-Car is always close
-Guests can come/go as they please. No hassle like dorms
There are a lot of things to consider when living on/off campus. I'd love to hear from you! Write a comment or facebook message me to let me know what you want to hear more about! Feel free to ask questions!
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