Written by Sierra Dean, Class of 2022
As an incoming freshman, you must be emotionally, mentally, and physically prepared for constant ice-breaker games, name games, and mingling. I advise you to prepare your “fun fact” in advance. I promise, we only put you through this torture for your own good. In all seriousness, there will be a lot of ice-breaking happening in your first couple weeks of college, but it is a fun experience that you will remember ~forever~. For some of you, this is a chance to make new friends and you’re going to LOVE it! For others, this might be your worst nightmare. If breaking ice is your worst nightmare, I promise you will be assisted, checked on, and not forced to do anything you are not comfortable with. Socializing takes a lot of energy and courage, and we, as orientation leaders, recognize that! We might be overly excited for you to break some ice, but this excitement is coming from the bottom of our hearts and we only want you to feel comfortable and confident. Everyone at Chapman wants you to have the time of your life, succeed, and make some friends along the way! Here are some tips for breaking that ice, making some ~friends~ and enjoying the start of your college experience!
#1 Positive Vibes
The best thing to do during times of change is try to stay positive. When maintaining a positive outlook on your current situation, you are more likely to end up enjoying your experience! If you do not meet your bestie the first day of O week, do not stress or get down on yourself! You have so much time!!! Just keep a positive attitude and people will want to be around you!
#2 Do NOT Hide
Please, do NOT hide in your dorm during O week. I advise you to try and stay out of your room as much as possible during the first couple weeks. Everyone is eager to make friends just like you, which makes breaking the ice much easier! You won’t be breaking any ice if you hide in your room and watch Netflix and Youtube all day and night. Of course, I want you to get some rest and recharge, but do your best to get as involved as possible with the people around you, in your O groups, in your hall, and in Starbucks!
#3 Actually Learn Names
There will be so many opportunities to learn names, REMEMBER THEM! It is such a good feeling to have someone say hi to you and remember your name whether you run into them on campus every once in a while, or you sit with them in class. Learning others’ names will motivate them to learn your name as well, thus ~breaking some ice~. You will feel more connected to your peers and you will begin to notice you know more people than you think!
