June 5, 2025
By Ava Glover, an economics and communication studies major from Pittsburg, Kansas
Orientation. Every first-year student goes through some form of it (and most often in-person), but it can seem intimidating. What do you mean you have to spend an entire day with strangers? And who are these people in red polos?! But trust me when I say that orientation is a rewarding experience, and you can get a lot out of it — I know I did! I will be sharing with you how my orientation day set me up for success as a Husker, both on and off campus, through various tips.
1. Build connections with the people in your group
During orientation, you will be surrounded by other incoming students within the same college as you, and, for many people, this can be an opportunity to develop lasting friendships! Because I’m from out of state, I was super nervous to come to Nebraska because I knew no one. That said, I met a current close friend of mine during my orientation day. She and I struck up a conversation about American history, musicals and our favorite workout routines, and we have been friends ever since. We even became roommates during the second semester of our freshman year! Even though I moved into a sorority house for the past academic year, we still will get coffee and go for walks, and I truly value our friendship.
My story is not unique, either. Other orientation leaders have similar stories of creating new connections during their first-year orientation day. You never know who you might meet during this time, so I would encourage you to embrace talking to your fellow group members! I would extend this into when you begin classes in the fall. Although it can be intimidating to initiate a conversation with someone new, there are so many unexpected friendships and joys that have come from doing so throughout my time as a Husker.
2. Ask any questions you have
Orientation is an amazing time to ask any questions you might have about the university or college life in general. Transitioning from high school to college is understandably a big change, so there are no “dumb” questions. Whether you’re nervous about making friends, navigating feelings of homesickness or joining clubs, or if you’re simply curious about what the best coffee shops in Lincoln are, there are so many people who are happy to help answer those questions. Beyond orientation day, there are still plenty of opportunities to get help when you need it. Resources exist on campus to resolve any struggles you might have, whether that be getting help with academics, physical or mental health or roommate disagreements. The Writing Center, Center for Academic Success and Transition (CAST) and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) are just a few options that can help you reach your full potential as a Husker!
3. Take it all in
Orientation is only your first day as a Husker, so please take a deep breath, relax and have fun. Admittedly, you will be presented with a lot of information on your orientation day, but I would argue that one of the most important aspects of the day is simply enjoying it. This is officially your first time on campus as a UNL student, so take all the pictures, admire all the beauty (and squirrels) around campus, maybe try a new Lincoln restaurant and relax, because you’ve got this. As an upcoming junior, I can say that college isn’t always easy or perfect, but it does go by fast. I wouldn’t trade the memories I’ve made as a UNL student for anything. If there’s one regret that I’ve had thus far, it would be that I wish I had taken more pictures or been more present and lived “in the moment,” so I would encourage you to take it all in! Orientation is just the first of many amazing days as a Husker, and I wish you the best of luck on campus in the fall.