Your First Year Away From Home
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Many of us anticipate the day that we will finally be free from our parent's rules and guidelines that we all had to follow at some point in time while we were at home. Going to college means new rules, new guidelines and often, your own rules. It is a little scary when you think about it, but this is the time in your life when you begin to learn the true meaning of responsibility and independence. Your first year away from college can be tough, rewarding and simply awesome all at the same time. I remember the drive to Santa Barbara. Even though I was with my two best friends, my mom and dad, and my aunt, it was still hard to imagine that I was going to be on my own. I could tell that this was very hard for my parents, and I have to admit that I did get homesick, but not until my 3rd year at UCSB!! Some of you may begin to feel it the moment your family leaves, and some of you may not even feel the slightest need to call home. Either way, homesickness is something most students living away from home can relate to at some point in his or her life.
Your first year away is going to be filled with choices and decisions that you are going to be forced to make. Choices like, do I miss class today, or do I stick it out and go? Should I go to that party everyone is talking about, or should I study for my midterm? Should I call home and ask for money, or should I try to get a job? Should I have sex with this guy or girl, or should I wait until I'm sober? These may be a little funny, but these are the types of choices that you as a student may come across during your first year here at UCSB. Decisions will be made, but you need to be sure that you are aware of the potential consequences that each decision will carry. As long as you keep these consequences in mind, you'll be okay.
 One of the first things you should do when you move into your residence hall is MEET TO YOUR RESIDENT ASSISTANT (otherwise known as an R.A.)! They are your biggest resources. They have an enormous amount of training and can answer almost ANY question you have for them. Whether it's about courses you should take, to finding an apartment the following year, or if you just want to know how to get involved at UCSB, your R.A. should have some answers.
Living in the residence halls is a very unique experience, as you will find out. You will meet many new people on your floor and throughout your building. These people all come from different experiences and each has something to offer, just like you do! Challenge yourself and take the initiative to meet people. Everyone is just as nervous as you are about being in this new environment.
Roommate issues are inevitable and if you find yourself having some conflicts, you're not alone. This is a perfect time for you to challenge yourself and try to compromise in order for both you and your roommate to have a successful and enjoyable year. Talk to your roommate, and set some ground rules from the start. This may seem hard, but it's better than dealing with conflicts later on.
The residence hall is a great way to get involved with your community as there are many leadership opportunities that are offered. Each hall has its own council and runs like a student government: all have a voice to decide the actions and activities of the hall. You can also apply to be a Desk Attendant and gain some marketable skills, or simply help organize events for your entire hall to enjoy. However you decide to get involved, it is very rewarding and is a great way for you to feel connected to UCSB. Lastly, I would like to leave you with some advice:
This is an experience that only you will be able to continuously make better, and if you follow these few guidelines, you will have the experience of a lifetime!
- Nick Negrete
Former Assistant Resident Director, San Miguel Hall
What to Bring
We asked freshmen what things they wish they brought and left at home when they moved into the residence halls. After living in the halls for a year, this is what they had to say (note that some items are on both lists). Students wish they would have brought:
TV; framed pictures of friends; posters; VCR; shoe rack; closet organizer; snacks; stereo; glow in the dark dinosaurs; shower shoes; raincoat; planner; bean bag; computer; coffee machine; lots of pillows; bike pump; ball pump; shower caddy; beach chair; favorite comforter; a large cup to bring stuff from the dining commons; big terry bathrobe; high school yearbook; water dispenser; more food; a lamp; bed spread; wind chimes; ear plugs; mini first aid kit with thermometer, medicine, etc.; cordless phone; plants; basketball hoop; mini ironing board; camera and lots of film; dog (however they don't allow pets); guitar; sundries like shampoo; blender; mini-refrigerator; umbrella; various decorations; jelly bean machine; air freshener; friends; mom's home cooking Students wish they left at home:
TV; car; a safe; jewelry box; a rug; ironing board and iron; dressy clothes; lunch box; too many shoes; dried flowers; trunk; expensive bike; electric blanket; mini barbeque; high school yearbook; too many clothes; half of my books; mini grocery cart; photo album; so many stuffed animals; warm clothes; stereo (my roommate had a better one); popcorn popper; too many storage boxes; tennis racket
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