Freshman year can be overwhelming. It is helpful to find on-campus ways to maintain one’s mental and physical health through this difficult transition.
The Auburn Recreation and Wellness Center allows many students to blow off steam. From the yoga classes to the many treadmills and weight sets, The Rec offers many ways for students to stay in shape.
Mary Siena McBride, sophomore in public relations and minor in business, works as a lifeguard at The Rec. Her shifts range from early morning to early afternoon.
“Staying in the sunshine is my favorite part about my job. I think freshmen should definitely try their best to explore all aspects of The Rec to stay physically in shape. The Rec has so much to offer and so many helpful classes and machines,” McBride said.
Physical exercise increases endorphins, which can keep a person happy. It is important to get outside and stay active, especially during freshman year when one is facing lots of new challenges.
Mental health challenges can also present themselves during this transition. Being somewhere new and feeling a bit lost is a normal feeling for freshmen to have.
Tristan Johnson, sophomore in sustainable biomaterials and packaging, is a part of the Student Government Association. Her position in government promotes access, engagement and opportunity between students.
“Getting involved in anything Auburn is a great way to stay busy and try something new. Creating new relationships with people in your class, club or even the dining hall is so important. These relationships you create freshman year will help you through college,” Johnson said.
Making new friends and having people to talk to is crucial. Actually attending one’s classes is another important part of freshman year.
By going to class and staying on top of things, one’s first year can become less overwhelming. Connecting with professors and learning about the academic resources Auburn has to offer can make the work load feel less heavy.
“Living on campus made it easy to get involved and meet people through the dorm. I feel like I came out of my shell freshman year because of the proximity of other people. I also became familiar with Parker Hall because of how many Study Sessions I attended freshman year,” said Ann Morrow Martin, sophomore in hospitality management.
Incoming freshmen living off campus are encouraged to meet a friend living on campus to stay involved. There are also concourse hours where many different organizations set up and encourage students to join.
If a student is ever feeling lonely, there are people that can help. Auburn University Student Counseling and Psychological Services has a wide variety of different counselors for students to connect with.
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