UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN River Falls

First Year Student Blog

The Summer Before UWRF

Students walking on campus at the start of the school year

The final summer before your college career begins… how does it feel?! Many students often feel excited for this new chapter of life, but also have a lot of questions about what to expect while at college. We want you to be able to be able to focus on enjoying the excitement and jitters about what lies ahead, so we’ve prepared a list of a few things that can help you make the most of this summer.

Embrace opportunities to spend time with close friends and family

While you will make many new connections when you arrive at UWRF, try not to get ahead of yourself and enjoy the time you have in these last few months near your loved ones! Talk about what you are excited for, nervous for, and just make some memories. Keeping close with family and friends from home can help you after your transition has already begun. They can be a great resource to help reach out to them when you need a friendly face (or voice) or if you have any questions and issues that they might be able to help with.

Check out campus

Campus tours through the Admissions Office are offered every week day, and you can also take a stroll around on a self-guided tour. Feel free to explore campus to learn where the buildings are and where your classes might be. This can help you feel more confident about where things are as you start classes in just a few months! Added bonus: then you can serve as an unofficial tour guide with the friends you make in the fall and can help other students who may be a bit lost.

Start thinking about your packing list

You have likely referenced the Residence Life packing list and are feeling good about packing what you need. Soap, pillows, and shower flip-flops are all very important. But you also want to think about bringing a couple of items that are special to YOU! If you have a stuffed animal that you bring with you everywhere you go, consider bringing it. A few books, photos, or games that are special to you can help you settle into your room and make your hall feel like home. While these are things you could *probably* live without, if they help you feel more comfortable in your transition, don’t be afraid to bring them.

We understand that there are a lot of questions and concerns that students are thinking about and if you are not sure who to reach out to for questions, reach out to us! We can help direct you to specific offices, like Parking Services, the Department of Residence Life, or the Financial Aid Office, and help you get all of your concerns addressed. We are here and excited for you as you prepare you for your transition to UWRF!