An unscientific compendium of advice from theInstagram followers of @hsc_southbound. While this advice is focused specifically on the experience at Hampden-Sydney College, it undoubtedly applies to every incoming college freshman.
- Go to class!
- Behave as a gentleman.
- Buckle up & enjoy the ride.
- Eat every meal with someone new.
- Say hi to everyone you walk past on campus.
- Know the difference between “your” and “you’re”.
- Buy-in 100%. You get out of it what you put into it.
- Know that you have one chance to make a first impression.
- Do the assigned reading… at least enough to participate in class.
- Take advantage of the opportunity to really get to know your professors.
- Study like your life depends on it… It’s hard to dig your GPA out of a deep hole.
- If you do it right, you will have friends at every fraternity house. Visit every house.
- Strive to meet people who are different than you. We are all part of this brotherhood.
- If you’re trying to be the coolest guy in the room, you’re not the coolest guy in the room.
- Don’t be afraid to get involved in things you know nothing about. You will learn along the way.
- Be friends with everyone on campus. You never know who will wind up with a Wikipedia page.
- Stay physically active. It’s easy to take for granted how much exercise you got in high school
- You have four years to meet your classmates, but only one to meet the current seniors.
- Always be on the lookout for new friends, beyond just the first few people you meet.
- Don’t go home on weekends. Thousands of alumni wish they could be in your shoes.
- Forge your own path, don’t just do things because your friends are doing them.
- Leave your dorm room. You’re doing it wrong if you spend all your time there.
- Don’t use technology in class. Be actively, mentally present, and take notes.
- Making friends at Hampden-Sydney is as simple as introducing yourself.
- If your girlfriend comes to visit, encourage her to bring her friends.
- Always meet at least one alumnus at a tailgate… You never know.
- Ask questions daily. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help.
- Do not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do.
- Stick to your convictions, but keep an open mind.
- Don’t blow your TigerDollars in the first month.
- Use your time wisely. It goes quick.
- Work hard, play hard.
- Be genuine.