Utilize your first year advisor! I absolutely loved Elly Brenner and found her to be both a great resource and a friendly face throughout the first few months. Also, visit the CSC in Geddes as soon as you can. ND has countless opportunities beyond the campus and they’re more than willing to help you achieve your wildest ambitions – from serving with orphans in Honduras, to studying American culture at Disneyland. Just make sure you take advantage of your time here and leave Notre Dame a better person with unforgettable memories; such as, midnight trips to Recker’s or island-hopping escapades on the Greek islands.

Always remember that nothing is permanent. You can change your classes and intended major as much as you want until you find yourself studying what you are passionate about. Do not be intimidated or scared of your advisor. They are truly there to help you succeed. Things may seem extremely overwhelming and hopeless at first. Give yourself time to settle into a routine and realize that if you look around there are so many great people ready to help you with your ambitions. Homesickness is and unfortunate factor for most first year students. I was probably one of the worst, and I can tell you that it gets so much better. Hang in there, seek out the help you need. You are attending one of the best universities in the world! Take advantage of every opportunity!

Don’t ever hesitate to reach out to anyone on campus—be it a professor, a rector, or a peer—because it will almost always result in something positive. Being timid will only result in eventual regret.

Try everything! Having opened myself up to a variety of new opportunities, I feel my horizons have been expanded and I am better prepared to select my concentration and major. There is a lot that Notre Dame has to offer its students, and if you take the time to pursue these opportunities, the payoff will be beneficial.