Tips for First-Year Students

The Office of Residential Life and Education is here to help! From tips on how to start your college experience, to what to bring, to what's nearby to explore, we've got you covered!

Tips for First-Year Students

#1. Get Involved

Join a club, student organization, or intramural team, or attend campus events. When you try something new, you’ll meet people with shared interests, and you may discover a hobby or passion you didn’t know you had. Saint Anselm’s campus community is welcoming, and involvement is one of the best ways to feel connected. View the most up to date list of clubs.

#2. Stay on Campus Early On

While it’s great to visit home, consider spending the first 4–6 weeks of the semester on campus. This time is crucial for meeting people, building routines, and getting involved. Staying engaged on campus will help ease homesickness and make the transition smoother.

#3. Keep Your Door Open

When you’re in your room, leave your door open; it’s a simple way to meet your floormates and build friendships. Some of the best college connections happen right down the hall!

#4. Use Your Resources

Don’t wait until you’re struggling to ask for help. Advisors, professors, RAs, and campus offices are here to support you. Taking advantage of tutoring, office hours, or wellness resources can make a big difference.

#5. Don't be Afraid to Start a Conversation

College is full of new faces and opportunities to connect. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, or start a chat in the hallway or after class. A quick “hi” can turn into a meaningful friendship, mentorship, or opportunity. Everyone’s excited to get to know you, so start the conversation!

#6. Come with an Open Mind

At Saint Anselm College, we live out the Benedictine value of hospitality by welcoming every person as they are. College is a time to learn from one another — through different backgrounds, ideas, and experiences that expand how we see the world. Approach each interaction with openness, curiosity, and respect. When you do, you’ll help create a community where everyone feels they belong.

What to Bring

When moving to college for the first time, it can be hard to know what to pack and what to leave at home. Your room is already outfitted with essential furnishings. One of the best things that you can do prior to arriving on campus is to get in contact with your future roommate(s) and discuss the types of items you wish to bring to campus. Coordinating who will be bringing certain appliances, electronics, and furnishings can be very helpful in saving you time and space. Talking about your room before you move in will help you to visualize it as a space where you and your roommate(s) can thrive and live comfortably.

The downloadable list below is a general guide and will help you pack for the academic year. Also, check out the pro tips from the students section on page 2 for recommendations from people who know! Each room has a bed and desk per resident, closet space, curtains, and, in most rooms, a dresser. The rest of the decor is up to you. Room dimensions vary among residence halls; however, a 9 ft. x 12 ft. carpet is usually adequate if you intend it to cover the majority of your room. Please be sure that all carpets do not have rubber backings as they are fire hazards.