As a freshman gearing up for your first semester at Texas A&M, it can feel like the first-day jitters and that the world is your oyster wrapped up into one exciting package. You’re about to enter a brand new chapter and a completely transformative time in life – and that’s something to celebrate!

However, even if you’re ready to leave your hometown and begin your journey ASAP, we know it can still feel overwhelming. Wondering how you’ll meet friends and where you’ll fit in on a campus of more than 70,000 students is normal, and those questions are on everyone’s mind. 

Maybe you’re not sure what to expect, or maybe you’re ready to hit the ground running. Either way, you’re about to discover just how much Texas A&M has to offer you – and the Division of Student Affairs is here to help you get plugged in. 

We recently sat down with Audri Poage, Sophomore Class President, as she reflected on the ups and downs of her freshman year. Looking back on the past year, she has some advice to share with the Class of 2029.

1. Show up!

Audri: The best secret to finding your place as a freshman is simple: it’s to show up. Show up to the events in your dorm. Show up to Howdy Week. Show up to Club Crawl. Show up to class! Say “howdy” to the people tabling across campus for organizations that interest you. Even though you may be nervous or feeling uncomfortable, bring your full self to the table and say yes to opportunities to get out of your comfort zone and see all that Texas A&M has to offer you.

2. Try to stay in Aggieland for the first six weeks of the semester

Audri: This one builds upon the last tip – because it’s harder to show up if you’re always heading home for the weekend. I know how tough it can feel to transition into a brand new place and even though it’s tempting to go back to your comfort zone, there are many reasons for you to stick around Aggieland! 

The first six weeks on campus, there is so much happening, and there is truly something for everyone. All of it is geared towards welcoming you to Texas A&M, getting you connected on campus and in the Bryan/College Station community — and of course, helping you meet new friends.  

The truth is you can’t get this time back; you’re only a freshman once. Make the most out of everything happening on campus during your first semester.

3. Say hello to your neighbors

Audri: Whether you live in the residence halls or off-campus student housing, knock on your neighbor’s door and introduce yourself! Invite them to go with you to the dining hall, walk to class, or attend one of the events happening on campus that week together. It’s a great way to start making connections with those around you, and you never know who will become your closest friends in the years to come. 

4. Get involved with something that excites you

Audri: Remember how I said you should show up to events like Howdy Week and Club Crawl? Well, at these events, many of the more than 1,300 student organizations and clubs will be there recruiting new members. It’s a great time to explore and see what interests you. 

Want to join a professional club related to your major? Or maybe you want to join a service- based organization centered on a cause you care about. Don’t forget about fraternity and sorority life, too. There are so many options to find your community!

5. Don’t be afraid to try something new and make mistakes

Audri: College is one of the best times in life to put yourself out there, pursue things you are passionate about – and actually figure out if you’re passionate about it or not. If it doesn’t work out, there is no shame in moving on. The worst thing you can do is not fail, but to forgo the chance to try something new. Leave all your regrets on the table! 

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Are you new to Texas A&M and don’t know where to start? 

The Division of Student Affairs is here to support your transition to life in college. Check out everything we have to offer – we have 13 departments that are here to support you and help you create your unique Aggie experience.