Photo by Madison Busick

You’ve applied to colleges; you’ve gotten your acceptance letters; you’ve chosen your school; now, you’re actually here. Congratulations, you’re embarking on your first year of college in Worcester! To help out, we asked past and present students studying in Worcester for their tips and tricks on making it through your first year of college.

Discover something new to love.
Take an unscheduled field trip of your own and see what’s right outside of your campus!

“Attending school in Worcester is a special opportunity! Take advantage of all that Worcester has to offer. The city is full of life and is worth exploring! There are so many hidden gems within the city that allow students to take well-deserved breaks from school.”
Courtney Jacques, 2018 graduate, Worcester State University

“Explore the downtown area with your friends and admire all the cool architecture and sculptures.”
Chloe Adler-Mandile, junior, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

“Worcester is full with rich history.… It’s not hard to find. Get on the bus and go downtown and see for yourself. The bus is not scary, [the] cost is very low, and it is a simple system to use. Look at the buildings that surround you and ask questions about them – take pictures of them. When you get back to the dorm, Google them. You never know what you will find.”
Peter Peloquin, 2017 graduate, Worcester State University

New day, new restaurant.
From mom-and-pop diners to upscale burger joints, you’ll never run out of options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and those late-night cravings.

“Make a point to get out and explore Worcester’s fantastic food scene.”
Michael Brooks, senior, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

“As you are branching off campus, don’t be afraid to ask about student discounts; many local shops offer them. Choose & Mix, Wooberry and Wild Willy’s are just a few of a long list.”
Maia Shalev, junior, Worcester State University

The go-to buddy-system.
Always keep safety in mind when you’re venturing off of your campus and be aware of the numbers and offices you can reach out to in case of an emergency.

“Coming from a tiny town [and] moving into a city, especially one I always saw in the news, I was a little nervous. I was nervous about the city in general but, most specifically, walking on the streets. Like any place, I would avoid walking the streets alone, but if you have to, just be aware and cautious. After a few weeks of moving to Worcester, I began to be more comfortable being in the city, and now I love it… The best advice I could give is to not be intimidated by it. Don’t be scared by it’s ‘bad reputation’ and try to get out and explore. Also, don’t carry a lot of cash on you.”
Lindsey Giorgi, sophomore, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Getting the right classes.
Got an 8 a.m., and you’re not a morning person or not too fond of the class so far? Remember, you can always switch, drop and add classes – just pay attention to deadlines!

“Professors truly care about their students and want to see them succeed! This can be [a] hard one, but do not be afraid to ask questions! Go to office hours if you have questions, but also to build relationships. Ask your professor how they chose their field of study and what they love about it. Confused about majors? They can help you figure out your strengths and weaknesses! A professor who knows you will be much more willing to put their heart and soul into a recommendation letter. That recommendation just might just land you that awesome internship or job you have been eying.”
Maia Shalev, junior, Worcester State University

Your whole college experience is what you make of it. It’s a time for growth! Branch out and try new things, find out what really piques your interest and what doesn’t. Along the way, though, The Woo can help shape everything you like about your school and your new city. Best of luck in your first year!

Savanah Hippert