Tips for a First Year From the Experts

Rani smiling in front of the Shapiro Campus Center

Rani B. ’25

Your first year at Brandeis is full of new opportunities and memories. With each new experience, the Brandeis community is here to support you. Here are a few pieces of advice from our current first-year students, the Class of 2025.

Peyton smiling at the camera while sitting in a chair with his hands on his knee
Peyton G. ’25

Be Yourself

The Brandeis community is all about staying true to who you are. "Brandeis is a great community because there are so many different cultures and backgrounds represented," said Peyton G. ’25. "Everyone genuinely cares and accepts people for who they are."

Peyton, a double major in politics and international and global studies from Hawaii, encourages students to let their guard down by being themselves. "It's sometimes hard to connect with new people on the East Coast. You won't find that at Brandeis," said Peyton. "Brandeis honestly reminds me of the accepting and welcoming culture back home in Maui," said Peyton.

Karin smiling at the camera, standing in a hallway
Karin M. ’25

Find Your Mentor

"When I first became a STEM major, I found myself experiencing imposter syndrome," said Karin M. ’25, computer science and applied mathematics major. After joining Assistant Professor of Biology Kene Piasta's galaxy program, Karin found her confidence.

This program pairs undergraduate students with graduate students, who serve as mentors. Karin was paired with Ella Tuson, a PhD candidate. The two meet weekly to discuss class topics and any field-related questions. "It's so helpful getting to hear my mentor's perspective because she's been through the same worries," said Karin. "I no longer have imposter syndrome and feel fully confident in my abilities."

Fischer smiling at the camera while sitting on the ladder railing on the side of the indoor pool
Fischer C. ’25

Plan Your Schedule for YOU

Starting a new schedule can be challenging at first. Fischer C. ’25 recommends creating a schedule that works for you. Fischer, currently undeclared, has a busy schedule with coursework and swim team practice. He maintains his balance by choosing class times that work best for his needs. "I think it's important to make a schedule that maximizes your productivity," said Fischer. "I'm not a morning person, so I take most of my classes in the afternoon. I know I will be more awake and get more out of the lessons that way."

Show Up for Yourself

"With Zoom class as an option for some classes, you may want to stay in your dorm and comfort zone," said Lia B. ’25. "It's important to show up and get that in-person experience." Lia is actively involved on campus, representing the class as the 2025 senator in the Student Union. She recommends going to class and actively participating to meet new people. "Try sitting in a new seat every class," said Lia. "You'll meet different people during discussions and make new friends throughout the semester."

Facundo smiling at the camera, holding computer cords around his neck
Facundo R. ’25

Engage in the Community

"You have to approach meeting new people with the Brandeisian mindset," said Facundo R. ’25, an economics and computer science major from Argentina. When Facundo arrived on campus, he didn't know anyone. However, he found it difficult to be lonely at Brandeis. "Everyone is approachable and friendly," he said. Facundo recommends embracing the friendly environment at Brandeis and having the courage to say hello to new people. "You can walk up to anyone and meet a new friend."

Take Your Time

Rani smiling in front of the Shapiro Campus Center
Rani B. ’25

"Everything isn't going to fall into place all at once," said Rani B. ’25. Rani is undeclared, but recommends reaching out to undergraduate departmental representatives (UDRs) in the departments you are interested in. "The representatives are a great resource for explaining the program and sharing their personal experiences."

Your first year on campus you may expect to have your friends, activities and majors figured out on the first day. Rani reassures that it's okay to take your time because everything will eventually fall into place. "I'm still figuring it out too, and that's totally okay."

Explore Boston

Archie sitting on a bench with elbows on knees
Archie T. ’25

"Take advantage of the city," said Archie T. ’25, an applied mathematics and computer science double major. With Boston only a short train ride away, it's the perfect way to spend a Saturday or Sunday. Archie recommends checking out the Museum of Fine Arts, walking along Newbury Street, and studying in the Boston Public Library. "It's good to get off campus. You will feel refreshed and ready to take on your week!"