Advice for Students from All Over Campus

Advice:

“Make sure to ask your adviser for real answers to tough questions - your roommate, classmate, friend down the hall may be willing to help, but may not provide the correct information.

“When in doubt, consult your degree evaluation.”

— Jim Gadzinski, Director of the Academic Career Advisement Center

“Ask questions. You have resources here at NMU. Even if you don't know where to go to ask your question, walk into ANY office and someone will help you with the next step.

“It's okay to not have everything figured out, no one does! Take it one day at a time, and say "yes" to new opportunities (inside and outside the classroom!) You'll be surprised what falls into place.”

— Kate Hooper, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions

“Best Advice - Get Involved in College

There is no denying it, college can be difficult - you are in a new city with unfamiliar faces, new living situations/roommates, new social and academic expectations..whew.. but getting involved on campus will be one of the highlights of your college experience!

Here is some advice to help you navigate your college experience-

Download the HUB NMU app and use it. This is the one-stop shop place to find out about the different student orgs, activities and events (like concerts and hockey games), share rides, books to buy and sell… the list goes on!

Pick One - (pick something!) attend some student organization meetings, attend student org fairs, reach out through the HUB, check out the bulletin boards, TV monitors, follow social media posts– and see what you like. Pick something where you can make some friendships and have some fun. When we say there is something for everyone, we mean it! By picking just one event or organization to try out, it could mean the beginning of YOUR college experience. 

Attend Events (and sometimes win prizes by scanning into the events) - there are loads of events and activities happening from scavenger hunts, to concerts, to bingo, to hikes, game nights, intramurals, athletic events, movies, and volunteering in the community– it seems like the opportunity to explore new experiences and opportunities are endless. Afraid to try something new? Bring a friend- and share this new, scary, exciting experience together!

Visit the Center for Student Enrichment (Office of FUN) anytime, we would be happy to chat about the numerous involvement opportunities!”

— Center for Student Enrichment

“Communicate and do things with your roommate! You don't have to be best friends with them, but to have a successful roommate relationship, you need to at least respect one another. When communicating with your roommate and suitemates, be direct! Notes, texts, social media posts or passive aggressive behavior is not helpful. Instead, use your words! And remember, you will attract more bees with honey than with vinegar. 

“Expect bumps. Just as you experience in your current living situation, things are not perfect all the time. It is unrealistic to expect constant rainbows and unicorns when living with others. Instead, when you experience those bumps remember that if you need help navigating through it, Housing and Residence Life staff can help you. Staff can help teach your communication techniques along with helping to do mediations between roommates.”

— Cat Hardenbergh, Director of Housing and Residence Life

“The 1997 Freshmen version of myself would tell you to participate in Intramural Sports. I did not play high school sports, but I loved being active. I would also advise you to look at an on campus job. You instantly get included in the inside workings of campus which is super helpful to take advantage of the many programs happening across campus.”

— Tricia Bush, Assistant Athletics Director - Campus Recreation