Before You Arrive Explore the Path to Princeton site fully to get a sense of living and learning at Princeton Read the Daily Prince and other sources to find out what Princeton academics are really like Comb through Course Offerings and consider a balanced combination of classes - including seminars and lectures, and a range of topics and disciplines Consider applying for a Freshman Seminar on a topic that interests you, but which you might not otherwise explore Get a calendar you will really use - electronic or on paper Look at the Academic Calendar to get a sense of the (rapid!) flow of the semester Don't stress - if you feel unprepared we'll help you figure things out when you get here In the First Few Weeks Attend the Academic Expo during Orientation Attend at least one academically-oriented workshop or activity (e.g., McGraw's workshop on adjusting to Princeton and starting the semester strong) Go to departmental and certificate program open houses to get more specific information about courses and requirements Get input on your course schedule from your adviser and from an upper-division student-class selection is crucial Go to the Student Activities Fair and select a small number (2-4) of extra-curricular activities. Use the Interactive Campus Map to find routes to your classes and other destinations Look ahead; once you get your syllabi, map out your due dates for all your classes Budget time for sleep, exercise, and social life; you'll get more out of your transition During Your First Semester Create a study group for one of your classes; they're really efficient Schedule an Academic Life & Learning Strategies Consultation with a McGraw Consultant Visit the Writing Center for help with your first big paper Go to at least one of your professor's office hours to talk about something you find interesting in the course Even when things are hectic take time for recreation; this will actually make you a more successful student Find at least one mentor among faculty and staff, in addition to your adviser, to meet with regularly Attend at least one of McGraw's workshops to prepare for your first midterms, finals, and everything in between Take 20 minutes a week to reflect on your academic approach and ways you might adjust it to meet Princeton's demands Look around campus for additional resources, workshops, and activities to help make a smooth transition
