What Every New Student Should Know

What?

It is really hard to believe that my first semester in Virginia Tech is over! I can still vividly remember my journey here a few months ago! Thinking back, I realized that there’s so much to learn in life and so much more to experience.  Life in the States is completely different, but the National Service Program and INTEC (my 2-year preparatory college) definitely trained me well.  Workload and pressure in INTEC is much heavier compared to that in VT. Even though there is no Malaysian food, huge shopping malls and my beloved family here in Blacksburg, I know that I have so many other friends who are experiencing the same thing – I am not alone. The best part of the whole semester is I get to experience my first Fall season, where the leaves transformed into beautiful colors and my first Winter! I saw my first snowflakes on December 1, 2010. Their beauty made every effort and hard work worthwhile.

National Service 3 years ago

American Indulgence Week in INTEC

View of the tree outside my apartment in Fall

View of the same tree when it snows!

So What?

I have listed a few things that a first year student should know before becoming a student in Virginia Tech (especially in Agricultural Sciences program).

Top 10 Things every College Student Should Know:

1. College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in VT offers more than 41 majors in its 12 departments. Click here for more information.
2. Students majoring in Agricultural Sciences at VT are required to choose at least 2 minors/concentrations from a few of the departments in this college, which is really cool. Click here for more information.
3. This major allows first year students to venture and look for their areas of interest before finalizing/choosing their majors/minors/ concentrations.
4. Always keep in touch with your advisor as they are assigned to you according to your chosen majors. They can answer all your questions regarding your course, schedules – almost everything until you graduate.
5. Getting involved in Agriculture-related as well as other clubs, organizations, activities and sports will help make new friends, build connections, improve communication and increase experiences in that sector.
6. It is very important to balance work and play. Remember, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
7. If you have any problem in class, don’t hesitate to ask/inform the professors as they can help because they can see if you are putting in effort.
8. When you could not understand what some professors are saying, ask them because they may have the Southern slang when they speak.
9. Be very wise when it comes to spending money because there is no mum and dad to manage your finances. Click here for advice.
10. It is best to prepare before classes and manage time efficiently – all you need is practice and success is on your way!

Now What?

I think I’m quite good in doing all of the above now but they will be easier with each semester as I become more mature and experienced. Even though it’s not possible to know what will happen each coming semester, it is always good to know that I am prepared for the fun and adventures waiting for me. Of course, with a goal in mind and determination to improve, things will usually go well with a little bit of hard work and realization of my personal strengths. Goodbye Fall 2010! Hello Spring 2011!

Let's go, Hokies!