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Secrets of the Herd: Essential College Advice from Your Fellow Rams

07.23.2024 | By: Texas Wesleyan University
Two male students do the Rams Up sign with a cutout Willie the Ram

New to Texas Wesleyan? Stressed about fitting in? Fear not, Rams! We've gathered real advice from current students and alumni to make your first year awesome. Check it out!  

Always ask for help! 
- Jeline Rivera, senior finance major 

You’re part of the RAMily, and we’re here to support you. Whether it’s needing help with a math equation, getting directions to your next class, or you’re in a tight spot financially, let us know. We can guide you to resources that can help.  

Join student orgs to make friends. 
- Kehinde Hopkins, sophomore English and mass communication major 

We couldn’t agree more! When you join an organization or club that you’re passionate about, you’ll meet like-minded people. Plus, getting involved is a great way to boost that resume.  

Don’t think you can go all day without food, EAT and always have water. 
- London Shannon, junior business major 

Please know you do not have to go without. We have a food pantry with fresh fruits and veggies, snacks, school supplies and toiletries – completely free and open to every student, no matter your situation. It’s located on the first floor of the PUMC behind the stairs.  

Friends come with time. Prioritize your schedule and routine over ‘socialness’.  
- Ethan Bowe, sophomore exercise science major 

Juggling classes, practices and games, a job, volunteering, studying, family, friends – we're exhausted just typing all that – can be overwhelming. Finding a balance between your social and academic life is key. If you’re a freshman, you’ll learn about that balance in your ASE 1111: The Freshman Success Experience class. (But ask other students, too. They may know some additional tips!) 

Get to know your advisor and professors. Texas Wesleyan has the best ones and are truly invested in you! 
- Angela Latigo, ’02 bachelor’s in sociology 

Smaller. Smarter.  isn’t just a cool tagline – it's a way of life.  Going to college can be daunting, but our small campus community is here to help you thrive. We can’t wait to get to know you better! 

Your mental health is important! Utilize the amazing counseling center on campus! 
- Karina Rumans, ’24 M.A. in Professional Counseling and incoming Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy 

Our counseling center is completely free for students! The services are provided by master-level and doctoral-level counseling students from the Graduate Counseling department, who are taught by the experts. Both online and in-person appointments are available.  

Don’t be afraid to start a conversation with your classmates. 
- Sharria Hudson, senior mass communication major 

Remember, most people in your class are likely in the same boat – new, maybe a little nervous, and looking to connect. Take a chance, strike up a conversation, and you might be surprised by the friendships and learning opportunities that blossom! 

Try phrases like:  

  • What are you majoring in? And why did you choose that major? (or if they don’t know their major yet, ask them what careers they see themselves in!)  
  • Did you do anything fun over summer?  
  • Where are you from originally?  
  • Your shirt is awesome! Where’d you get it?  

Find a mentor! Someone who will pour into your cup.  
- Jeffery Chanta, ’23 bachelor’s in political science and current M.Ed. student 

Imagine climbing a mountain. A mentor is like a seasoned guide who has already reached the summit. They can show you the best path, help you avoid pitfalls, and offer encouragement along the way. Seek out senior students, your professors and staff or even community members!  

Explore campus! There are so many great places to visit, especially quiet places to study.  
- Israel Sanchez, ’24 bachelor’s in computer science 

We may be a little biased (okay, a lot biased), but our campus is pretty awesome. From hanging out in the Martin Center to exploring the Templeton Art Studio (and trying to count the number of Rams in Pro Joe’s office...), there’s a lot to see. When the weather is cooler, you can also find some beautiful spots to study outside. And don’t forget to visit our neighbors at Black Coffee and Joe’s Hangout 

View the campus map 

Come see the shows put on by Theatre Wesleyan!  
- Chad Rojas, junior theatre major 

Did you know Theatre Wesleyan is one of the longest-running theatres in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex? Musicals, dramas, tragedies, comedies and more take the stage each semester, performed, designed and staged by our very own theatre students.  

And you don’t have to stop with theatre. Our music department also puts on numerous concerts from instrumental and choir performances to Mariachi shows! Come support your fellow Rams and catch a show. Check the calendar throughout the semester for performances!  

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At Texas Wesleyan, we have a rich history and a Texas-sized reputation. As stewards of the University, it is our responsibility to build a future as bright as our past.