You’re home!

Welcome to Indiana University! Welcome to the hassles, the joys and the lessons that are college life.\nThis year will be full of surprises – some good, some bad – and you will not be the same person by the end of it as you are right now. We particularly welcome the freshman class and hope to give some insight into the complicated transition phase that is the undergraduate experience.\n1. Eat, drink and be merry. This is a time when you will be pushing your mind and body to new limits and dealing with an unprecedented amount of stress. Find out what diet is right for your lifestyle. Bloomington offers a wide variety of reasonably priced cuisine close to campus. Challenge your palate while trying new things and supporting local businesses. It’s not just pizza and tacos (but try the pizza and tacos).\nIf you drink, remember to do it responsibly, legally, in moderation and with friends. Know how much you can handle, and don’t drive after even one drink. Once legal, discover all this town has to offer, from “Sink the Biz” at Nick’s to wine tasting at Oliver Winery. \nHappiness at IU, though, isn’t dependent on drink alone. Your happiness is your responsibility, not your romantic partner’s, not your friends’ and certainly not your parents’. Take advantage of the endless free cultural events around town and the natural attractions near campus. There are amazing classes at the Student Recreational Sports Center, spiritual centers for every faith and social groups for every inclination. Getting involved in the community can help you find home while you’re here. \n2. Learn. Yes, we are suggesting that you actually attend class. They are technically what this University stuff is all about. It’s not hard. Wake up, make coffee and go. Not that your lecture halls and discussion groups are the only places you will learn life’s important lessons, but class time and office hours are specifically what you’re paying top dollar for. Take advantage of your professors, frequent their office hours and try to stay awake. Classes make up just a few hours of your day, and you actually might end up learning something. If not, we recommend crossword puzzles, or hiding an IDS in the folds of your notebook. \n3. Memento Mori. Remember that you are mortal. Your physical body is squishy and easily bruised and can only withstand so much abuse before it rebels in ugly and expensive ways, so be kind to it. Doing everything you can for your health will help you enjoy your time here exponentially.\nBecause your time here is limited, find out what your limits are and take the social risks to discover what fulfills you personally, politically and spiritually. It’s all here in little Bloomington, Ind. You just have to be willing to leave your comfort zone to find it. Carpe Diem! Have a great year!