Get Ready for Your First Year of College
Congratulations! You’ve been accepted to Azusa Pacific University and you’re well on your way to starting your journey as a college student. As you look forward to your first year, it’s a good idea to prepare early—academically and personally. Here is everything you need to know before your first day.
Check In with Your Representative
“I’d definitely encourage students to utilize their admissions representative in the weeks and months leading up to the first day of classes,” said Collin Parker ’15, undergraduate admissions representative at APU. Your admissions representative is your liaison at APU; their goal is to walk you through the admissions process from start to finish. Once you’ve submitted your enrollment deposit, be sure to contact them and complete any additional admissions steps, like taking placement tests, registering for classes, or signing up for health insurance.
Decide on Housing
APU offers both residence halls and apartment-style living for students who plan to live on campus. Each living area has different layouts, furniture, amenities, and community areas, so finding out where you’re going to live can give you a better picture of what your first year will look like. It can also help you determine what you need to bring and what can stay at home (or in storage) for the time being. Most housing assignments are sent out in early July.
If you’re planning on commuting, it’s a good idea to make sure your car is in reliable condition or to get to know the bus schedule. The APU/Citrus College Exit from the Metro Gold Line, which runs from Azusa to East Los Angeles, is also within walking distance from campus.
Register for Welcome Week
This unique experience prepares you to thrive at APU by equipping you with resources that are available to you throughout your college journey. You’ll get to know the campus, connect with other first-year students, and have some time to get settled into your new home before starting classes. “At APU, we really place an emphasis on our incoming students hitting the ground running,” said Parker. “We want to make sure that you are being holistically developed during your time as a student. We’re confident you’ll experience growth in every possible way—from your academics to spiritual life, your social development to professional skills.”
Take It One Step at a Time
Starting college is a big step, and it’s normal to feel a little nervous before your first year. Take a deep breath, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and enjoy this time. “In this crazy season of beginning your college experience, my encouragement would be to celebrate the moments of disappointment in the same fervor as the moments of joy,” expressed Parker, “Hold on to the truth that the Lord has it all figured out, and He’s never going to let you down!”
Posted: July 2, 2020