By Mia McCauley, Student Affairs Intern
After such a long hiatus, it’s understandable that you may experience an adjustment period when returning to campus. But, know that your Badger community missed you! And for those of you just joining us, we are so thrilled to welcome you onto our lovely campus. Here are some reminders and tips that all students can use to help ease the transition into spring semester.
Branch Out
Whether you are a freshman entering your second semester or a senior heading into your last, it’s never too late to make new connections. Talk to those in your classes and discussions, befriend your neighbors, join a new club or team sport, and ultimately be open to everything. The right people will stick. Plus, there’s never a bad time to make new relationships. Looking for a place to start? Visit the Spring Student Organization Fair on January 30 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. in the Kohl Center.
Plug Into The Community
Transfer students are an essential part of our campus. However, finding your place when the year is already underway can feel daunting. The Transfer Transition Program (TTP) helps connect transfer students to campus and provides resources to support their adjustment. Stop by the Transfer Engagement Center (TEC), a dedicated space for transfer students to ask questions, meet other transfers, or take a moment to rest. The TEC also offers snacks, coffee, tea, drop-in tutoring, and even free printing.
Celebrate During Winter Welcome
Just like in the fall, campus comes alive at the start of the semester to welcome students – new and returning – back to campus. From January 20-February 11, Winter Welcome will feature a variety of events that are made to help you connect with fellow Badgers and discover all there is to love about Madison in the winter. From Ready, Sett, Go! Game Night in the Sett on January 24, a silent disco in Dejope Hall on January 26, and even the MLK Symposium on January 31 in Memorial Union, there are tons of opportunities to celebrate with old friends or make new ones! Learn more and download the Wisconsin Welcome app at go.wisc.edu/welcome.
Set Yourself Up for Success
The new year is a common time to focus on resolutions. As you’re setting these goals, help yourself be successful by starting small and creating a more intentional focus. Also, use your resources! Maybe your goal is to attend a group workout class. Try visiting one of our state-of-the-art gym facilities and signing up. Or, perhaps you want to improve your writing skills. Visit the Writing Center to develop skills or workshop your next essay. Finally, if your goal is to prioritize your mental health, UHS and UWill Mental Health resources are here to support you and address common concerns, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder. It’s okay to ask for help.
Ready to Take on This Semester?
Badgers, let’s embrace both this new year and semester. Now is the perfect time to meet our goals, try new things, prioritize our well-being, and grow into the best versions of ourselves possible. We can do this.