As a new student, it might seem challenging to get acclimated on campus. During the next several days especially, new Warriors will probably be wondering, Where can I eat? Where can I take a break between classes? And speaking of classes, where are they? Below, we’ve outlined 10 things that will help you become #WarriorStrong in no time.
1. Get to know your new home away from home
Prepare for being the new kid on the block by getting familiar with campus. Wayne State offers interactive maps at maps.wayne.edu, where you can also access printable versions.
During these first few days of classes, don’t be afraid to use the map to find your classes and determine the time it takes to get from one class to the next. Students who commute may find this especially helpful in determining which parking lots or structures are closest to their classes.
Now that classes have started, you will probably notice students relaxing on the beanbag chairs in the basement of the Student Center, on hammocks in front of State Hall and on various benches around campus. Stay on the lookout for spots where you can unwind. Those spaces will help you manage your busy schedule and heavy workload as the semester gets underway.
2. Go online
Familiarize yourself with Wayne State’s online platforms, such as Academica and Canvas, which you will be using frequently for email and other important communications. You can these through your WSU email address and password.
3. Stay safe
Wayne State is proud to be one of the safest campuses in Michigan. Still, it is very important that you are aware of what steps you should take in case of emergency and to help prevent crime.
The Wayne State University Police Department (WSUPD) patrols campus and the surrounding area 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Be sure to program WSUPD’s phone number in your phone: 313-577-2222.
WSUPD also offers classes teaching the R.A.D Systems of Self Defense. Classes cover a range of topics including weapons defense and domestic violence. Check out the list of classes at police.wayne.edu/rad-basic.
4. Keep your OneCard handy
Your student ID, or OneCard, is your ticket to all things Wayne State. You may need your OneCard when printing in the library or when seeing advisors in the Welcome Center. We recommend that you keep this card with you at all times while on campus.
Loading OneCard dollars can also give you access to snacks in certain vending machines and at various eateries on campus. And if you don’t have a parking pass, OneCard dollars can help you access parking lots and structures for a discounted daily rate.
For a complete list of OneCard benefits, and to load money onto your OneCard, go to onecard.wayne.edu.
Wayne State also offers free Auto Vehicle Identification Number Etching (VIN) sessions throughout the school year. Through this custom process, vehicle identification numbers are professionally etched on the surface of at least six windows of a vehicle to help reduce auto theft. Be sure to check your email to see when the next session is announced.
5. Meet your new best friend
Wayne State advisors and counselors are here to help students be successful. The insight they provide will likely impact you academically and personally.
Don’t wait until you have an issue to reach out to your advisor. Setting up an advising meeting is easy through advisingworks.wayne.edu.
6. Treat your taste buds
Wayne State offers a range of on-campus dining options. In the Student Center, you’ll find favorites like Taco Bell, Panda Express, and Wingstop. Dunkin’ Donuts and Subway are also nearby. And stay tuned for 1,000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria and So Sweet, which will debut in the new Anthony Wayne Drive Apartments this fall.
We also have two all-you-care-to-eat dining halls. The Towers Café offers a variety of choices, from the salad bar to home-style meals and stir-fry creations. Meanwhile, Gold ‘n’ Greens is 100-percent vegetarian and certified kosher dairy.
For a complete list of on-campus eateries, visit shops.wayne.edu/restaurants.php.
7. Explore the city
As an urban campus, Wayne State is centrally located in the heart of Detroit. Hart Plaza, Ford Field, Little Caesars Arena, Campus Martius, Eastern Market and many more landmarks are located in our backyard.
There are a variety of public transportation methods readily available to help you discover Detroit, from MoGo bikes and Bird electric scooters to the QLine light rail and SMART buses. Wayne State has also partnered with Zipcar to offer a campus car-sharing program that’s available to Warriors 18 or older.
For more details on transportation options, visit parking.wayne.edu/alternative/index.php.
8. Get involved on campus
Student organizations are a great way to immerse yourself in the Wayne State community. Access a list of our 400-plus student organizations at doso.wayne.edu/org-services/listing. Reach out to the student contacts provided to get more details about the organizations that appeal to your interests.
9. Sharpen your skills
If you’re looking for tutoring, the Academic Success Center is the perfect place to start. It offers a first-year seminar that centers on study skills, and it also provides peer-assisted learning, math literacy courses and more. Learn more at success.wayne.edu.
10. Explore employment opportunities Being a student can be expensive. We recommend that you check out Wayne State’s Career Services center, which is located in the Faculty/Administration Building. There, you will find work-study, part-time and full-time employment opportunities. Start your search at careerservices.wayne.edu.
More advice from students, alumni and staff:
Use your campus map and give yourself plenty of time to get to classes during the first week. Take good notes, don’t be shy to ask questions, and utilize your professor’s or grad assistant’s office hours. Since homework often counts toward your grade, don’t shortcut them!
— Kevin Zielinski (@RedCedarMedia) August 18, 2018
Take every opportunity to connect and stay connected to faculty. This is your time to experiment and find your passion. They will help you now and years after you graduate. #WayneState #BackToSchool2018
— Nick DeNardis (@nickdenardis) August 17, 2018
Learn a second language. It'll help you in your career and personal life more than you could ever know!
— Jared Hoehing (@JHoehing) August 17, 2018
If you are feeling down, sad, hopeless, helpless, anxious, or overwhelmed- or if you have lost your appetite, are sleeping too much or not able to fall/stay asleep- go to CAPS! Their services are free and they can help! 5th floor of the Student Center. No appointment necessary.
— Amy E. Graham (@AmyGraham36) August 17, 2018
Take good notes. Find a reliable study schedule. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Go to campus events. Take care of your health, and find time to enjoy the college experience.
— Matt Williams (@Matt_Will29) August 17, 2018