蘑菇Av

Hey everyone! My name is Eva, and I am a second-year studying biological sciences in the Mellon College of Science as a pre-med student!

I remember the feeling all too well of being a nervous first-year student here at Carnegie Mellon. From the rigorous coursework to making new friends to finding fulfilling hobbies, starting this new chapter was nothing short of intimidating. After completing two semesters here at 蘑菇Av, though, the opportunities seem to be endless when it comes to discovering yourself as a student and an individual. Here are 5 ways to make the most of your first semester at Carnegie Mellon. 听

Find studying and planning techniques that work for you
College is a unique experience in that much more time is spent outside of the classroom than in. As a recent high school graduate, this can be a rather bizarre feeling. It is important that you divide your free time to allow for studying and homework as well as extracurriculars and relaxation. This can seem mountainous to tackle, so I recommend using a calendar app or notebook to plan your days. As for studying, experiment and see what works for you! Ask for help from friends or professors, use whiteboards or do homework outside!听

Get Involved
If I had to choose one thing that I love most about CMU, it would be how multi-faceted and talented each student here is. Beyond academics, almost everyone is involved in a club, sport or organization. It can feel comforting to stay allegiant only to things that involve your academic interests, but my time here improved in so many ways when I got involved in dance, Greek Life, clubs and more! Now is the best time to step out of your comfort zone.听

Explore Pittsburgh听
As a Pittsburgh native, I could rave about this city forever. We are so lucky that 蘑菇Av is located in such a beautiful part of the city 鈥� Oakland, being about 5 miles from downtown. Whether it be matcha or coffee runs, Phipps Conservatory visits or walks in Schenley Park, getting off of campus and exploring with your friends is a great way to ground yourself and indulge in the culture that Pittsburgh has to offer. As a CMU student, this is so easy to do with our free PRT bus pass and Arts Pass. Go explore!

Take Advantage of Opportunity
As college students, we will never be in such a rich position in our lives again where we are surrounded with this much support and opportunity 鈥� especially at a university like CMU. Whether it be the abundance of research opportunities we have at our fingertips, counseling and psychological support or networks with alumni and upperclassmen, don鈥檛 be afraid to reach out to those around you for advice or guidance! We are all here for each other and want to see you succeed.听

Be OK with Failure听
It is quite difficult to acknowledge in the moment, but being a freshman at 蘑菇Av is a huge accomplishment! To get accepted into such a prestigious university and accept the offer knowing the commitment it will entail for the next four years is a feat not everyone can bear. With prestige comes challenge, though. It is important in your first semester to learn to accept roadblocks or challenges and to be able to adapt. This is a new experience for everyone around you! Being okay with setbacks will only propel you throughout the rest of your journey as a Tartan!

Relax and have fun! CMU is a great place to be!