High school seniors across the country have finished turning the tassels on their graduation caps and collected their diplomas. Now they’re moving on to the next phase of their lives – pursuing a college degree.

Beginning the week of June 19, 2016,  the first of 10 new student orientation sessions at the College will begin for the 2016-2017 academic year. It’s a time of great excitement for rising freshmen, but it can also come with a lot of anxiety as students make the transition from high school to college.

Second year orientation intern Haley Womack remembers the highs and lows of her orientation in the summer of 2014, describing the experience as “fun and overwhelming.”

“It’s a lot of fun because you’re meeting a lot of new people,” the rising junior says. But she admits students can get “overloaded” with information. “That’s where the overwhelming part comes in.”

But orientation isn’t all about academic advising, residence life rules and picking a major. The real fun comes on day two, Womack says. That’s when students can attend the Information Fair and learn about all the College’s clubs and activities. (Frisbee anyone?)

And if a student finds himself or herself feeling really lonely, Womack says don’t be shy about reaching out to an orientation intern for support. Students should also set a goal to meet one person with whom they share something in common.

“Try to find that one person that is involved in the same things as you or can help you get involved in those kinds of things,” she says. “Because that can really make all the difference in the world.”

Here are 10 tips from orientation interns to help the Class of 2020 get the most out of their introduction to life as a Cougar.

1. Get the College of Charleston New Student Guide 2016-2017 app:

Don’t be afraid to ask your orientation intern questions. They’re here for you!

Navigate orientation with this cheat sheet of information. The free app, which launched last year, offers easy access to everything from financial aid information and due dates for tuition and fees to an interactive map of campus to a list of campus resources and services.

2. Things to bring:

Don’t forget a government issued ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Bring your MyCharleston username and password as well as your Cougar ID number if you have it. And don’t forget a laptop – you’ll need it to do homework to select eight to ten classes ahead of registration on day two (but you can leave the laptop in your hotel room, there’s no need to carry it around campus).

3. Be independent:

Don’t bring your girlfriend, boyfriend or best friend to orientation. Even if your GF/BF/BFF will be attending CofC in the fall, make sure you push yourself to spend some time on your own, exploring your new home. Orientation is about meeting new people and creating your college experience.

4. Think about your future – but don’t stress:

Regardless of whether you’re set on a major or still weighing your options, it’s worth attending the academic major meetings to learn about how to get the most out of a major. And make sure you go to your advising appointment so you’re prepared for class registration the next day. But don’t stress if you don’t get all the classes you want – you can adjust your schedule later. Who knows, you may end up loving a class that wasn’t your first choice!

5. Don’t skip sessions:

There’s a lot to know about your new life as a CofC student. Don’t sleep in or skip sessions! You might miss out on valuable information. Make sure to follow your schedule (and not your new best friend’s). It’s important to attend your appointments for advising and registration. Plan to go to information sessions held by the offices of Greek Life, the Center for Student Learning, the Center for International Education, Campus Recreation and many more. And don’t forget about the Information Fair. Feel overwhelmed? Make it simple: Attend any session that sounds even mildly interesting. Think you might want to study abroad one day? Then go.

6. FYI, Mom and Dad:

Alright parents, even if you plan to attend orientation with your student, think of it as a test run for your baby’s departure from the nest. You will be separated from your kids for most of orientation (including when they register for classes). But don’t worry, the goal is to prepare your burgeoning college students to navigate their new roles as independent young adults. And we’ll keep you busy in the meantime with information sessions about financial aid, tuition payment policies, student services, extracurricular activities and campus tours.

7. Be social:

Orientation can make even the most social butterfly feel a little shy. Try not to sit too far away from others and accidentally isolate yourself. Make an effort to introduce yourself to other students in your orientation group and information sessions (an easy goal is to talk to at least five new people over the two days). And if you’re feeling really confident, meet up with a few of your new pals during the evening for a walk or a bite to eat. You could end up making a lifelong friend!

8. Take a walk (around campus):

And not just with your orientation group – walk around on your own or with that new friend you just made. Familiarize yourself with key places and buildings (Randolph Hall, the Cistern, the Stern Student Center, Addlestone Library, TD Arena etc). Wander into buildings where you might have classes, and if you get lost ask an intern for directions – that’s what they’re there for.

9. Put your phone down!

It may be painful, but seriously put your phone on silent and slide it into your pocket for the day. While you may be tempted to distract yourself with Instagram, Twitter or Snapchat, resist! Instead of posting emojis or status updates to your friends back home, turn to the equally unsure freshman next to you and say “Hello!”

Make a fun memory and snap a picture with Clyde the Cougar.

10. Must-Dos:

Orientation isn’t all about bracing for the next phase of your life – remember to have some fun, too! Get a picture with Clyde the Cougar. Snap a selfie in the iconic Cistern Yard. Take a walk along King Street or stroll down to White Point Gardens and enjoy the scenic views from the battery. And if you’re really looking to expand your horizons, hail a bike taxi with your family or friends. It’s a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the Holy City. Have fun!

For more information contact Stephanie Auwaerter, director of orientation in the Office of New Student Programs, at 843.953.2017.