Rylee
Who do I contact if I get lost on the first day?
I’m not the best with directions or finding my way about with the first few days of something new, is there someone who I can call that can help me find my way? #college #help
2 answers
Ken Simmons
Ken’s Answer
When you are at college, I think that you will be impressed when you find that you will be surrounded by people who care and are willing to help, if asked. This extends to fellow students, staff, and faculty. The problem that most people have is that they are somehow somewhat hesitant to reach out for help. Help is readily available. Do not hesitate to ask.
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Rylee,
I know some very large campuses have student volunteers located at various places throughout the campus during the first week of the semester. But, other campuses I have been to do not have this. However, there is often a lot of assistance available on the school website, assuming you have access to it during the day.
Learning how not to get lost is important - it is a situation you will continue to face throughout life, such as when starting a new job. I have seen many people do test runs. They go out to places on nights and weekends, as appropriate, to plan for the day of the real event. I recommend you do the same. Spend some time on campus prior to school starting. Walk through the buildings where your classes will be located. Notice the numbering system for the classrooms. Some schools use something like 1.4.23 - for first floor, 4th corridor, room 23. The number must be an exact match, or else you are in the wrong room! Find the elevators, stairwells, restrooms, and break areas. You can draw maps or make notes. Be observant of visual cues - such as if there is a big antique clock outside the classroom, or, things like that! Once the school fills with students, it will look, sound, and feel totally different, so take your time getting to know your way around. Even when you think you've got it, give it some more time.
Sometimes, all you have to do is ask! When I visited a campus, and got totally lost, I asked random students for help. I had one who walked me all the way to where I was going, probably because it was obvious I would not remember the many steps in the directions he was trying to give me!
Planning ahead for things you know will likely cause you problems is good - but don't stress too much over this! You will definitely not be the only one lost on the first day!
Kim