The beginning of a new academic year is always a flurry of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps some nerves. For new students, navigating campus, college classes, and a whole new living situation can add to all of those emotions.
To help give our new Tar Heels a boost, we asked returning students and alumni what tips were really helpful when they first started at Carolina (or what tips they wish they’d received). Here are the Top 10 tips!
- Explore campus in your free time. Your afternoon walk might result in finding a new fav spot!
- Walk your class schedule before your first classes!
- Learn how to be efficient in the practice room! Having lots of practice time is a rare luxury.
- Bring a jacket with you, some classrooms are cold! Looking at you Hill 107 and Person Recital Hall. 👀
- Get involved now! Don’t wait to get “acclimated,” trying new things now will help with this. And just because you try something, doesn’t mean you’re committed.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! And for singers (especially ones with allergies): Flonase on hand for congested days.
- Folks in the practice rooms are not listening to you and thinking you suck! I promise! Also, if you sound amazing during your practice sessions, you’re practicing the wrong stuff.
- There are lots of performance venues on Franklin Street where you can experience live music. Be sure to explore the area!
- The UNC Music Library is the largest in the Southeast. It’s located in the basement of Wilson Library and has a huge assortment of sheet music, vinyl, CDs, and more!
- The staff in the Main Office (Hill 105) and Band Office (Hill 106) are super friendly and helpful! Stop by if you have any questions.