The Calvin Chimes staff would like to welcome you, class of 2018, to John Calvin’s beautiful campus. Don’t worry transfer students, we aren’t forgetting you. No matter what year you will graduate, there are some things that make this college distinct and we would like to help you with your transition.

We know that your first few days on campus can be intimidating. We remember awkwardly becoming friends with everyone you meet, having people ask what your major is 20 times a day and checking out that hottie in your quest group.

We have learned a lot over the past few years at Calvin and we would like to share some of this knowledge with you (the rest you will just have to learn by trial and error).

First, please do not, we repeat do not “freshman frenzy.” You will regret it the rest of your Calvin career. We realize that you are now in a completely new pool of eligible young bachelors and bachelorettes, but take your time. Get to know people. Get to know yourself and then decide to date (after Thanksgiving at the earliest).

Second, enjoy taking core classes. We know that your $200 History of Art textbook seems like a waste of money, but the core curriculum is part of what makes Calvin and a liberal arts education so unique. Taking core also allows you time to figure out a major.

Speaking of majors, it is completely ok if you don’t know what you want to study here at Calvin yet. Chances are you will switch one, two or three times anyway.

As far as classes go, we know you will want to take a nap during at least one of them. But when you aren’t take that time to get to know the person next to you. They may be in the same major as you, have the same interests as you or might even be your ride home next Thanksgiving. Who knows, they could just prove to be that future special someone.

Some of the best people you’ll meet here are your professors. These aged and occasionally youthful individuals possess deep pools of knowledge, wisdom and experience for your fresh knowledge hungry minds. Take advantage of office hours and take a professor out to lunch. You may just end up finding a friend or mentor for life.

Your four years at Calvin will fly by quickly and with that so will dozens of opportunities to be involved and participate. Whether it’s through joining dance guild or student senate, dorm leadership or intramurals, every opportunity paves the way for new friends and new communities. Not to mention it looks great on a resume.

Whatever your interests, don’t forget to balance your commitments. Don’t overcommit and don’t take on more than you can handle. The moment you do is the moment things fall apart. Make time for your friends, never forget to study for that exam and make sure you still have time left to put time into that local club or intramural sport.

Always remember to prepare for any and all weather conditions. You are now a resident of West Michigan which means you fall victim to the crazy seasonal cycles. Be prepared for spring to never arrive so get yourself one or two winter coats to stay warm or many more if you truly need the variety.

If you find yourself struggling academically, emotionally or spiritually, Calvin offers incredible services for you. These range from receiving academic tutoring and coaching from student academic services, meeting specialists at the Broene counseling center or the staff in student ministries. Always remember that there are people here to help you get through your Calvin journey. Never be afraid to ask for help, it is a sign of strength.

Last, but certainly not least, come write for Chimes! We know you have a lot on your plate right now, but we promise you won’t regret it. We have a brand new office in the basement of the Commons Annex and we love visitors so stop by any time. Welcome to Calvin.