Fall Fest 2022 | Photo by Arden Reimer | The Wright State Guardian
The fall semester in university can be overwhelming, so professors and students weigh in on what makes a great start for every student at Wright State University.
Student tips
As much as students are in denial about it, summer classes end and the fall semester begins on Aug. 28. Whether driving to Millett Hall or chilling in Hamilton Hall, these tips benefit all students, regardless of residency status.
Attend events
Even if a student prefers to lurk in the woods behind Honors Hall, attending a few campus events can improve mental and physical wellbeing. Fall Fest on Sept. 1 can familiarize students with the campus and all the organizations on it.
Think you will have a difficult time finding friends? Try the Speed Friending with the Culture and Identity Centers on Sept. 6.
For a comprehensive list of events, log into Engage.
Join a club
Representation and belonging in college are important, and being involved can make or break a first semester at college.
Being involved on campus can significantly improve the university experience, especially in regards to mental and social health. There is something for everyone on campus, from the E-Sports club to Lupi to cultural or academic organizations.
Hang with the Culture and Identity Centers
Union Market food got you down? Skedaddle downstairs to the Culture and Identity Centers, such as the Asian and Native American Center, Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center, Latino Center, LGBTQA Center and the Women’s Center.
Check out the CORQ app for additional opportunities.
Resume not looking good? Try career counseling.
Career counselors are available to help polish your resume for post-graduation preparedness. Create an appointment on RAPs, the link located on the lower right-hand side of your WINGS page.
For more career-related events, check out the events tabs on Handshake and keep a look out for the fall career fair.
Bump those grades up (with free tutoring)
No need to pay for tutoring when there are free tutoring services in the Student Success Center. Study coaches and tutors provide free assistance in specific courses, including chemistry, Spanish and more offered this fall.
Need assistance in math or writing? Check out the Writing Center and Math Center. These centers offer online tutoring as well.
Guard your classes
Creative writing professor Dr. Erin Flanagan weighed in with some advice, providing reflective insight about course selection.
“My advice is to try and guard your classes as something that's just for you, a chance to learn something new and to figure out what you’re into and who you are away from all those pressures and stresses,” Flanagan said. “Classes come with their own stresses I realize, but I think if students can learn to look at them as a refuge from the rest of their lives, they have the chance to open themselves up to a lifelong love of learning and curiosity.”
Get those gains
The Wright State Fitness Center and Campus Recreation are not exclusive to residents but are open to any student with a valid Wright1 card. The Fitness Center provides state-of-the-art equipment Monday through Friday, and Campus Recreation offers backpacking trips across the country and other recreational opportunities in the Dayton area.
The Fitness Center is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The pool is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Read the syllabus
It may be tempting to brush aside the multi-page syllabi you receive on the hectic first days of class, but reading each thoroughly can be academically beneficial. Take notes in your planner or set reminders in your phone for important dates and assignment deadlines. Different professors have different policies, and misunderstandings can quickly tank a good grade.
Get acquainted with your RAs/RAAs
Your Resident Assistants are available to help you adjust to being away from home—let them help you settle in. RAs and Residential Academic Ambassadors host monthly events to make your home-away-from-home feel a little more cozy. RAAs also host office hours with free tutoring in the dorms. Simply ask your RA or RAA for more details.
