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By Camden Perkins, PerkinsC1@Findlay.edu
According to Director of Student Persistence Bill Johnston, University of Findlay freshman get a number of resources to help them adjust to life as a college student.
“All new students are placed in the Virtual Oiler Experience (VOE) on Canvas, a pre-orientation that provides essential information for day one,” Johnston said.
Programs like Prime the Pump, which offers an early start in science, math and English, and a four-day orientation help students settle in, connect with peers, and acclimate to Findlay’s culture. Once classes begin, each student participates in a First Year Experience (FYE) course tailored to develop critical academic and life skills.
For many freshmen, the first year of college is a whirlwind of new responsibilities and adjustments. From balancing academics and athletics to navigating personal and financial challenges, students face hurdles as they adapt to campus life.
Logan Murphy, a freshman student-athlete, was surprised at how crucial time management became. He’s found success by setting priorities and relying on guidance from professors and upperclassmen.
“Learning to balance academics, social life, sports, and personal time has been challenging,” Murphy said.
Gabe Hemmelgarn, now a senior, shared advice for new students.
“Take each task one day at a time and avoid overwhelming yourself,” Hemmelgarn said. “Break down each class into manageable steps.”
Johnston emphasizes that support for freshmen starts before they arrive on campus.
The Prosper Program includes academic coaching and skill-building courses for students needing additional support.
“We also use Starfish, a tracking system that helps us monitor how each student is doing and provides early intervention,” Johnston said. Other resources include the Cosiano Health Center, Counseling Services, Delong Writing Center and the Academic Support Center.
Many freshmen struggle with financial stress and a lack of college readiness. Johnston notes that varied high school curriculums and the impact of COVID have created a range of preparedness issues among students, leading some to face their first academic challenges at Findlay.
“Many students find high school easy and feel out of their depth here, which can affect their confidence,” Johnston said. Financial readiness can also be an issue; not all students are fully aware of the costs they commit to when starting college.
Murphy and Hemmelgarn agree that asking for help is essential.
“There are plenty of resources available to make anyone succeed,” Murphy said, noting that upperclassmen provide valuable mentorship.
Hemmelgarn shared that he overcame personal challenges, including grief and depression, by reaching out for support and using campus resources.
“Overcoming tough times means finding support and knowing where to seek help,” Hemmelgarn said.
Johnston’s advice to freshmen is simple: “Focus on your process over the outcome.” He says that emphasizing study habits, note-taking, and attending office hours can lead to academic success.
“By focusing on your learning process, you control what you can do, and the outcomes will follow,” Johnston said.
The University is also working to close preparation gaps by enhancing orientation and potentially merging it with Prime the Pump to provide an academic bridge program for all new students.
UF’s website offers a start-of-the-semester checklist that will gives students more insights on managing finances and getting involved on campus.
