The Freshman’s Guide to Success

Settling In

The first year of college is a time for new experiences, challenges, and opportunities. For many, it is a big step into independence and a new social lifestyle. As you settle in, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by all the information being thrown at you. This guide is based on interviews with Kansas Wesleyan University students and faculty. It explores crucial lessons you will need to thrive in a college setting.

Academic Excellence 

One of the biggest adjustments that freshman face is managing their own academic schedule. Unlike high school, college requires a large amount of self-discipline. The key to success is to treat your education like a full-time job. This means actively engaging in classes, using office hours, planning study time, and not being afraid to ask questions.

Juan Maldonado, Director of Career Services gives the following advice about time management:

Juan Maldonado – Career Services Director at KWU

“Time management is probably the most important thing in college. A good strategy is to always have a planner”

He goes on to suggest picking a day of the week to sit and plan out your schedule. Maldonado also recommended using your phone to set reminders for assignments or activities. 

If you need help with your resume or any other career services, visit Mr. Maldonado in The Albert Nelson Student Success Center.

Building Community 

College is about more than what happens in the classroom; it’s also about the community you find and build. After all, the social aspect of college can be intimidating for freshmen. Joining clubs, attending campus events, and leaving your dorm room door open can be a great way to connect with others. It’s important to remember that everyone is in the same boat, looking for connections and friends.

Tru Haesemeyer, Class of 2026, is an English major with a minor in business. She emphasizes the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. 

Dance Team 2025-26 roster photo

“Being a part of clubs and organizations has been important. Especially for me, DECA has allowed me to explore what I like.”

Haesemeyer is the dance team captain, in the choir, and apart of DECA.

With DECA, she found marketing to be a good mix of her major and minor. With the skills she learned with DECA, Haesemeyer made it to the 2025 international competition in San Franciso. This is where she reached 2nd place in Marketing Communications. 

Take Care of Yourself

It is important to note that college is hard. If it was easy, everyone would breeze right through. It is easy to get lost in the cycle of college; wake up, go to class, go to practice, eat, sleep, repeat. Your personal well-being is important, so make sure you take care of your mental health!  There are mental health services on campus to help you manage your mental state. Kansas Wesleyan University has multiple mental health resources for students including TimelyCare and counselors available on campus.

There are currently open slots for appointments with our counselors. To schedule an appointment, send an email to mentalhealth@kwu.edu.