Freshman students socialize while their roommates sleep in Heritage Halls. (Photo Courtesy Chris Bunker)
Welcome to BYU. As a new freshman on a large campus, things might seem a little intimidating. But whether a freshman or a returning senior, here are a few tips to help students new and old make the most out of their time here on campus.
Academic assistance
In addition to professors, there are all kinds of resources available to aid academic success. Many classes have teaching assistants who can be a great resource for clarification on an assignment or help on a paper. Some subjects, such as writing, math and economics, have walk-in labs with knowledgeable students available to walk through homework and essays step-by-step. And don't underestimate the helpfulness of the Lee Library, which is more than just a nice place to study. Use the library to reserve private rooms for group projects or visit the Research and Writing Center to get help on finding sources for research projects.
The Universe
The Universe is a School of Communications publication that is the student body's source of news for anything from campus events, major world news, sports ongoings and Provo's music and fashion scene. New issues are distributed around campus every Tuesday and the website, universe.byu.edu, is updated regularly. Become a part of the conversation by following The Universe on Facebook (The Daily Universe), Twitter and Instagram (@UniverseBYU) or submit your own thoughts to universe.ideas@gmail.com.
New Student Orientation
For incoming freshman, NSO is a great way to kick-off the entry into college life. Make new friends, get to know the different majors you can choose from, become familiar with campus, get advice with upperclassmen and take part in some of your first BYU traditions, such as 'Lighting the Y.'
Counseling
Have a fear of airplanes? Overly stressed about finals? Or have a more serious problem affecting your wellbeing? BYU Counseling and Psychological Services offers free and low-cost professional counseling services for students dealing with issues, such as stress-management, eating disorders, anxiety, marriage and family problems and more. Visit the main office in room 1500 Wilkinson Student Center or the website at caps.byu.edu for more information on group and individual counseling services.
Staying Active
A man snowboards at Brighton Ski Resort in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Students who stay active during the school year can prevent the Freshman 15. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
Even those who find themselves eating every meal at the Cannon Center don't have to give in to the 'freshman 15.' Stay healthy and active by going for a swim, playing some raquetball or hitting the weight room in the Richards Building, all free activities for current full-time students. If group classes sound more appealing, buy a BYU GYM Empowered wristband for $48 a semester and have unlimited access to cycling, zumba, Insanity, yoga classes and more. Or for all your outdoor activities needs, BYU Outdoors Unlimited is a great, low-cost source for gear rentals and purchases. They rent everything from mountain bikes and rock climbing gear to snowboards and kayaks. Find them at 2201 N. Canyon Road.
Campus Devotionals
One unique part of attending BYU is the weekly devotionals every Tuesday in the Marriott Center. Past guests have included faculty and staff members, big businessmen, such as the CEO of Pixar, political figures, such as Mitt Romney and Condoleezza Rice, and members of the Quorum of the Twelve. If you can't make it all the way to the Marriott Center to watch it, several places on campus broadcast a live stream, including the Joseph Smith Building auditorium. If you miss it altogether, be sure to check out the Universe's recap at universe.byu.edu.