Congratulations and welcome to Elon University! As you rush from place to place during this orientation weekend, take a moment to realize the importance of the journey that lies before you and how Elon will be here to support you over the next four years.

The excitement on a college cam- pus during orientation is palpable. New students are moving in, parents are trying to figure out how to help and there are usually enough OL’s and staff members to create the perfect example of organized chaos. Though new student orientation is great for getting a quick introduction to all things maroon and gold, orientation isn’t nearly long or in-depth enough to tell you everything there is to know about Elon.

Here are a few things that you will be hard-pressed to hear during the next few days of orientation:

You will be exposed to adult situations in college.

If you’ve been sheltered from drink- ing, drugs and sex so far in your life, that’s going to change during your college career. Even if you don’t participate in these activities, they will be discussed and hap- pening all around you. Spend some time considering your feelings on these situa- tions ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard. And if you do choose to participate, learn how you can do it safely and respon- sibly. Don’t let anybody else’s expectations of college alter your own and don’t feel pressured to follow the crowd in order to fit in. You shouldn’t have to live up to anyone’s expectations but your own.

When studying abroad, consider the curriculum, not just the location.

Elon’s study abroad program offers students opportu- nities to experience dozens of different cultures first-hand during Winter Term or through a semester abroad program. If you are considering going abroad, make sure you are choosing the right program for the right reasons. While some students equate studying abroad as an excuse for a galvaniz- ing romp through a foreign country, the program you choose should be related to a field that you are interested in studying, if it isn’t already within your major.

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Don’t be afraid to explore something new — that’s why you’re here. But don’t be afraid to quit something if it isn’t working out. [/quote]

Don’t take an 8 a.m. class (if you don’t have to). While certain majors have less flexibility when it comes to scheduling classes, most majors allow you to choose what days and times you have class. Don’t opt for the earliest classes. Even if you’re a self-described early riser, accept that your first year of college will turn you into a creature of the night, whether you like it or not. Sleep is a precious commodity in col- lege—get as much of it as you can.

Only commit to what you know you can handle.

Freshmen are often encouraged to get involved on campus to help smooth the transition from life at home to life in college. But they usually aren’t warned about getting over-involved and stretching themselves too thin.

Balancing the combination of college- level work and good exercise habits while trying to maintain some semblance of a social life often leaves less time for activities than incoming students realize. College is a period of your life where, first and foremost, you will discover what interests you and what you’re capable of. Don’t be afraid to explore something new — that’s why you’re here. But don’t be afraid to quit something if it isn’t working out.

Get used to spending less money (don’t spend just because everyone else is.)

Unless you’ve got a great college job or your parents sent you to school with a huge chunk of change, your wallet will be much lighter in college and you’re going to have to learn how to live with lower standards of comfort. College is a time when money should first be put toward the things you need instead of things you want.

And while some students may have a seemingly limitless budget, if you want to have that extra money in your pocket, odds are you’ll have to work for it. Some students work part-time jobs through college to have any spending money at all.

Also, remember that spending money in college isn’t the only way to have fun. There are plenty of free activities that Elon puts on every week for students to enjoy.

We’ve given you a lot to think about. College can be a scary place, one that sometimes will seem to throw more at you than you think you can handle. But it’s one that you will emerge from as a different but stronger person than when you entered. If there is any piece of advice you take from this editorial, take this:

Not everything is going to work out for you. Accept that no matter how well you prepare, something will always come up that you didn’t expect. Rest assured that learning is meant to be flexible, and that failure is often a greater teacher than suc- cess.

Remember not to let your sense of confidence and optimism suffer and to remain positive during these first few weeks and months on your own.

And if you really feel you are struggling and not sure how to handle it, don’t hesitate to reach out for support from your room- mate, your RA, your OL or any of Elon’s support offices. They are all here to help you in this transitory period of your life.

But most importantly, remember to enjoy this once in a lifetime experience and always remember that there are millions of others that will be going through this rite of passage alongside you.