This is a question that everyone seems to ask at some point in their undergraduate years at WPI. In our opinion, there are a few things that you might like to check out in the coming weeks. They are intended to make your life a little easier, maybe academically, maybe socially or maybe just a way to relieve stress.
First, make sure you understand what the Plan is. We all had to learn sometime, and it helps when you go to see your academic advisor if you're both speaking the same language. Second, don't be embarrassed to ask questions, we are all here to learn and there's plenty of people who are willing to help you out. From the Writing Center and the MASH program to the Counseling and Student Development Center and the Major Selection Program, these people work to help students adapt.
We would encourage you to check out the Greek system when rush comes around. Although many students have decided that this isn't the lifestyle they want, if you don't look, you won't know. The next few years are really a good chance to expose yourself to different experiences and this can be a great one.
Go up to Bancroft Tower (not at night by yourself), it's the tower you can see from the Quad, looking towards the athletic fields, and it offers a good view of the city. Take a walk down Highland Street (maybe even take this paper along with you) and get a good feel for the neighborhood. Sometimes a walk around campus is good for clearing your head. Higgins House Lawn is also good, peaceful place to check out.
Hang up some posters in your room as quick as you can, nothing is more dull than those beige walls. Besides, having something that says a little bit about who you are is an easy way to start a conversation with your neighbors. Oh, keep your door open when you're in your room for a while, say "hello" to the people in the hall, maybe they're a little more shy than you, but give them a chance. You really have to look hard to find people to dislike.
Check out the orientation events, OK, so maybe you're not going to go to every single one, but there's a great program planned and it will help you get to know the school and the people in your class. You might want to go the Organization Expo on Wednesday the 23rd (2:30-4:00pm) on the Quad. This is a good chance to look at all the extracurricular activities offered here. And you'll probably want to sign up for a dozen, but remember you will need some time to study, too.
Learn to use the computer system. E-mail is probably the best way to stay in touch with your high school friends and people abroad and it's free. The World Wide Web has a lot to offer, as we're sure you've heard.
There are some good places to go if you can find someone with a car. Day trips to Purgatory Chasm (down route 146, about 10 miles south of Worcester) offer an interesting walk through the park or a place to picnic. Wachusett Mountain is a good place to go, but maybe you want to wait until ski season. Go to Boston if you've never been, Worcester has a lot to offer, but Boston certainly has more. Worcester is still a great place with a lot of interesting things to do if you're willing to find out about them. Give every opportunity a chance and above all, enjoy your time here at WPI.
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