Career Scoop

Mythbusting First Year Fears

With the fall semester only a month away, Mizzou is ready to welcome the Class of 2029 to campus to start their college journey. The new Tigers have Tiger Walk and a whole week of activities to look forward to as the semester starts, but it’s no secret that freshman year can be daunting. To help quell some of your first-year fears, here’s some of our recommendations and resources to help you make the most of your freshman year. 

What if I don’t make friends? 

The beginning of freshman year is one of the easiest times to make friends, since everyone on campus is in the same boat. You’ll meet so many people through Welcome Week activities and moving into your res hall, but remember to get involved as the year kicks into gear. Lots of Mizzou students meet friends through clubs, whether it be related to their major or a completely different interest. Check out the Get Involved Fair on September 2 to find clubs and organizations to join on campus. 

What if I get lost? 

Your saving grace for the first weeks of classes will be a map. Mizzou gives out paper maps during campus tours and summer orientation, but it’s much easier to use the map app on your phone. There’s also a campus map feature through the MizzouOne app to help you navigate your first days on campus.  

What if I’m in the wrong major? 

There’s no shame in switching your major, and it’s actually very common for students to switch as they get into different classes. If you’re questioning your major but have an idea of what you’d like to switch to, talk with your academic advisor about the process to switch. If you think you’re in the wrong major but not sure what you want to switch to, come visit the Career Center for a Career and Major Exploration. There’s plenty of time to try some classes out and switch majors, so don’t stress if the major you entered with isn’t the one you graduate with. 

What if I don’t get along with my roommate? 

Living in the dorms isn’t always easy, and roommate issues can be a struggle to navigate. If talking directly to your roommate isn’t working, try meeting with your RA to find a solution that works for everyone.  

What if Mizzou is too big of a campus for me? 

Mizzou’s campus can feel big, but it gets small very quickly. By your second semester you’ll be seeing friends from classes across the Quad, know exactly where your major’s building is and have your own favorite spots on campus. While it might seem big now, you’ll start to learn where each corner of campus is throughout your time at Mizzou.  

By Allie Tribe