Hello and Welcome to GW!
I hope that all of you in the Class of 2016 are gearing up for an action-packed orientation program - we are over here! In the spirit of Colonial Inauguration (CI), here are 5 things I wish I would have known or done 3 years ago, during my CI experience:
- Pick up a Freshman Senator application from the Student Association open house/org fair table (sorry, have to plug for the SA just a little bit!!).
- But seriously, pick up information and swag from all the organization tables that interest you at the Student Org Fair. You’ll get a sense of what we care about, what you can be involved in, meet us older folks, and walk away with a ton of free stuff. It’s basically a win-win-win situation.
- Special programs, small groups, regional dinners: all of these are designed to make GW - and our crazy-insane-jampacked orientation - seem smaller. When you’re looking to meet new people and form solid friendships, those are great places to start.
- Invest in your own water bottle. Keep an eye out for them at different events and snag 1 (or 2 or 3) if you can. It’ll save you a ton of money down the road (to fuel your Starbucks/FroYo/Diet Coke/Midterm snacks addiction), and keep you hydrated during the hot and humid DC summer.
- Things work out! Don’t get stressed if registration does not work out, or you find out that some credits won’t transfer, or you didn’t really like your roommates or find a solid group of friends. College is nerve-wracking as it is, and orientation is the crazy, sleepless prequel to the next 4 years of your life. Breathe, relax, and keep it casual. Things will fall into place as the year begins!
If you made it this far, congrats! Stay tuned to GWYOU for all things GW, albeit less lengthy. Say hi during CI and enjoy the ride!
Abby Bergren
Student Association EVP, 2012-2013
Dear Class of 2016,
Welcome to The George Washington University! My name is Ashwin Narla and I’m your Student Association President. I am a senior from Richmond, VA studying criminal justice.
This is the beginning of what will be an incredible four years. At first there will be a lot of information to sort through and a number of people to meet. My advice would be to pursue your passion and don’t be shy. I know these two points may seem cliché and obvious but looking back on my freshman year I realize that these tips really helped me out. From CI to the first weeks of school, you will be receiving handouts and emails about events on campus, student groups, and opportunities in the city. Sort through all this information based on what you are interested in, especially when it comes to student orgs. GW has a number of different clubs and organizations. Whether your interest be in athletics, politics, or theatre (or all three), you will be able to find a student organization to pursue your passion. Along with pursuing what you enjoy, the great thing about a student group is that it helps you to meet new people, interact with upperclassman, and learn about the university. Be sure to get involved, you won’t regret it!
The great thing about college is that this it’s a time in your life where you can pick something new to get involved with or continue your passions from high school. Also, it’s a time where you are moving into a new place and getting to know new people. You are not the only one who is going through this transition process so don’t be shy or worried about being awkward. Get to know the people you meet at CI, in your dorm, and in your classes. One of the best parts about this school is the people. GW has a very diverse student body where students come from all over the country and all over the world. A simple way to get involved is to explore the diversity around you. Also, explore your new home. DC is an incredibly vibrant city that offers so many opportunities from learning about our nation’s history on the National Mall to enjoying a Nats games on the Capitol Riverfront. There is so much to do at GW but it’s up to you to take advantage of it.
Don’t forget that the Student Association is here to help you! We have a lot of resources on how to get involved on campus, are able to answer any questions you might have about the University, and are here to advocate on behalf of the student body. Please come visit us on the 4th floor of the Marvin Center. Our door is always open.
Get ready for an awesome four years!
Ashwin Narla
Student Association President 2012-2013
