By: Amy Ryu
October 7, 2026
Starting college is an exciting experience, but it can also bring unexpected challenges. From making new friends to managing assignments and adjusting to a different environment, students often learn important lessons along the way. Three Thiel College students shared what they wish they had known before college and offered advice for incoming students.
Meghan, a sophomore majoring in psychology and sociology, said she wished she had known that she did not need to have her entire future planned before starting college.
“In high school, I thought I had to know exactly what I wanted to do,” Meghan explained. She originally studied psychology but later discovered that she also enjoyed sociology and decided to add it as a second major. Although she still does not know exactly what she wants to do after graduation, she has learned that it is okay to explore different interests.
Meghan also encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunities available on campus. She works at the Thiel Learning Center, where she helps with English conversation and front desk duties. She said that on-campus jobs, internships, and job-shadowing opportunities can help students explore their interests and gain experience.
Time management is another important part of college life. Meghan uses a calendar and planner to keep track of her assignments and schedule. She tries to complete work ahead of time, when possible, especially because her involvement in a sorority can make her schedule busy. She also recommended studying somewhere other than a dorm room. Her favorite places to study are the Psychology lounge in the Academic Center and the Bistro because changing locations helps her stay focused.
Laya, a junior majoring in early childhood education and special education, shared a different challenge she wished she had understood before college: the amount of work involved in college life, including getting around outside campus. She said having a car would have made it easier to travel to other places.
Laya also emphasized the importance of taking notes during class. She believes that writing down more information would have helped her understand course material and prepare for exams. However, she admitted that she does not always enjoy studying.
When it comes to making friends, Laya strongly recommended joining a club or organization. She explained that she was shy before coming to college and initially became involved in OBC because someone encouraged her to join. Through the organization, she met friends who have become an important part of her college experience.
“Honestly, join a club,” Laya said. She also encouraged students to leave their dorm rooms and talk to others rather than staying alone. In her experience, joining campus organizations can help students feel more connected to the college community.
Alayzha, a senior majoring in early childhood education and special education, agreed that getting involved is one of the best ways to make friends. She said she spent much of her freshman year feeling shy and staying in her room. After joining SGA during her sophomore year, however, she made many new friends.
Alayzha explained that clubs often provide more opportunities to build friendships than classes do. Students in a class may only have a few minutes to talk before or after a lesson, while club members see each other regularly and participate in activities together. She noted that organizations with frequent meetings can help members gradually become more comfortable with one another.
Alayzha also advised students who live close to home not to return home every weekend. Although going home can be comforting, she believes that staying on campus gives students more opportunities to meet people and experience college life. Looking back, she wished she had spent more time getting involved instead of worrying that she did not have friends.
Both Laya and Alayzha also encouraged students to try experiences outside the classroom. Laya recommended getting an on-campus job because it allows students to connect with college staff and become more involved in campus life. Alayzha suggested attending sports events, even if students are not familiar with the sport. She believes that watching college games can be a memorable part of the college experience.
Their advice suggests that college is not only about academic success. It is also a time to discover new interests, develop better habits, and build meaningful relationships. Students may not know exactly what they want to do or find their place immediately, but trying new activities and meeting different people can help them grow.
For incoming students, the message is simple: do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Join a club, attend a campus event, talk to someone in class, or explore an opportunity you have never considered before. College is a chance to learn not only in the classroom but also through the experiences and people that make each student’s journey unique.
