The first weeks at college can feel daunting, particularly if you’re away from home for the first time. With so many new responsibilities and unique activities available, it can be natural to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry. Eden Dodge ’20 has been in that same boat, and is here with some tips on how to get off to a great start at Ithaca College.
On the Right Foot
By Eden Dodge ’20, August 29, 2019
Senior student offers tips on how to make the most of your first few weeks on campus.
One of the highlights of First Bomber Weekend is the hike and swim at Taughannock Falls.
One of the highlights of First Bomber Weekend is the hike and swim at Taughannock Falls.
Take Part in First Bomber Weekend
Your first weekend on campus can be a memorable one, thanks to all the events included in First Bomber Weekend. Beginning with the IConnections Carnival on Friday, August 30 at 3:30 p.m. in Emerson Suites and ending with an ice cream social on Monday, September 2 at 3 p.m. at the lower quads, there’s all sorts of fun things to take part in while you get to know your classmates.
Visit the First Bomber Weekend website for more information.
Get to know your roommate and floormates
This may be obvious, but learning more about the people you live with is beneficial and helps make college feel like a home away from home. And that can not only make living together harmonious, but lead to life-long friendships as well. And don’t forget, if you’re ever unsure about anything, your RA is there to help you out.
Check out student media recruitment night
Ithaca College is fortunate to be home to two award-winning radio stations — 92 WICB and 106 VIC — an award-winning newspaper —The Ithacan — and an award-winning television station — ICTV. First-year students have the opportunity to get involved with them right away. Whether you’re comfortable on the air, on the front page, or behind the scenes, you’ll have an opportunity to make your mark.
WICB/VIC recruitment night is Thursday, August 29 from 6-7:15 p.m. in Park Auditorium.
The Ithacan recruitment night is Tuesday, September 3 from 12:10-1 p.m. in Park Auditorium.
ICTV recruitment night is Tuesday, September 3 from 7:00-9:30 p.m. in Park Auditorium.
First-year students interested in a radio career can hone their on-air skills by working for 106 VIC or 92 WICB
First-year students interested in a radio career can hone their on-air skills by working for 106 VIC or 92 WICB
Go to the Student Org Fair
Ithaca College is home to more than 150 student organizations. Every semester, they host a fair where you can find out more information and become involved. With so many groups present, you’re sure to find something that aligns with your interests, whether that’s working with seeing-eye dogs with IC Guiding Eyes for the Blind or performing acrobatic routines with IC Circus.
This fall’s Org Fair takes place on Wednesday, September 4 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in Emerson Suites.
Explore the town of Ithaca
College isn’t just about classes and student organizations. Ithaca has repeatedly been recognized as one of the best college towns in the country, so take advantage. The Commons, located downtown, is home to a host of amazing local restaurants. Throughout the year, events like a Harry Potter-themed Wizarding Weekend and the Apple Harvest Festival provide chances for good food and fun. And when you want to go exploring, there are countless gorges, parks and waterfalls to check out on nice days.
The three-day Apple Harvest Festival, which begins on September 27 this year, is one of the most popular events in Ithaca.
The three-day Apple Harvest Festival, which begins on September 27 this year, is one of the most popular events in Ithaca.
Go to First Year Residential Experience (FYRE) events
FYRE is an educational community experience designed to help students transition to life at IC and to help them consider their roles in a community. The experience lasts all year long, with events like Spirit Week and the First Year Speaker Series. You’re sure to find something that fits your personality.
For more information, visit the FYRE website.
Visit the Center for Health Promotion (CHP)
It’s important to take care of yourself so that you can keep up with everything you’ll be doing! The CHP partners with the Hammond Health Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, and the Center for LGBT Education, Outreach and Services to ensure that every student has the resources to thrive. Learn what’s available to you, and be your best self this semester.
To learn more, visit the CHP website.
Start the Traditions Challenge
From the moment you step foot onto the Ithaca College campus, you become a Bomber for life. Take part in the many traditions that foster intellect, creativity and character and make the IC community unique. By using the Traditions Challenge app you can begin completing these traditions and activities, become more connected to IC and the surrounding community, and know the meaning of “It's a great day to be a Bomber!”
Download the app using one of the links below and begin completing some of the 131 traditions, such as First Bomber Weekend or the Cortaca Jug.
One of the college's biggest traditions, the Cortaca Jug, is being played this year at MetLife Stadium in East Rutheford, New Jersey, and thousands of IC alumni and students will be attending.
One of the college's biggest traditions, the Cortaca Jug, is being played this year at MetLife Stadium in East Rutheford, New Jersey, and thousands of IC alumni and students will be attending.
Meet with your advisor
Not only can they help you map out your academic path, but they’re also resources to learn from about opportunities like the study abroad program or student organizations which match your interests.
Remember, your journey is just starting
Some students want to jump right into campus events and student organizations, while others prefer to ease into the year. Keep whatever pace is best for you, remember that the faculty, staff and your fellow students are here to help you succeed and be your best self!