“Your time at college will fly by” is something that I heard from tons of people before attending SAU, but honestly it is true. As a senior, I feel that I have grown so much spiritually and (of course) academically. I wanted to share some advice I have for students on how to have the best experience possible at SAU! 

Get to Know Your Professors 

Having a 13:1 ratio with facilities means that you will be able to really get to know your professors! I would highly recommend taking advantage of the small class sizes and participating in your classes. Professors will be super helpful not only for courses, but for letters of recommendation, and future career connections!

Find an On Campus Job 

Finding an on campus job is super helpful financially, relationally, and professionally! Throughout my years here, I have worked in Admissions, Marketing, Advancement, the Writing Center, and as a Presidential Ambassador. I have had a great experience at all of them, have met amazing people, and learned skills that will help me professionally! A bonus is it adds another thing to put on your resume! 

Click this link to see available positions.

Stay on Campus On the Weekend 

Although it can be tempting to head home from Friday to Sunday, I would highly recommend staying on campus! It is a great way to get plugged into a local church. You will also build connections with students outside of class and get to explore the area.

Don’t Be Afraid to Reach Out 

There are a lot of academic resources on campus that you can take advantage of! Don’t be afraid to ask for help in your classes. Resources such as writing and research assistance, peer tutoring, and study skill information are available free of charge for all students. Your professors are also more than happy to help!

Click here to learn more about academic resources at SAU.

Attend Activities Outside Your Comfort Zone

There’s always events happening on campus! Stay up to date by paying attention to the weekly newsletter email, the Student Government Association Instagram, or posters around campus! I would highly recommend attending events that are different from something you would normally do. Some of my favorite events were something that I was unsure of attending at first, but I took a risk, and had a great time! 

Develop a Good Organizational System 

Although the most stereotypical method for organizing assignments is typically a planner, I would encourage you to experiment with other options in order to see what works best for you! Personally, my go to is a day planner and monthly planner. I find it easier to visualize day-by-day if I am writing things out by hand. However, this is not the case for everyone! 

Below are some other unique ways to track important dates and tasks. 

  • Google Calender 
  • Notion 
  • Whiteboard 
  • Sticky Notes 
  • Google Spreadsheets 

Remember – the best tool is the one you’ll actually use! 

Make Time for Yourself 

Even when school, work, and athletics are piling up, make sure to make time for yourself. Taking care of your emotional and mental health and prioritizing self care will enable you to show up more in all other activities.

 Some examples of simple ways to make time for yourself include: 

  • Getting coffee with a friend before classes 
  • Taking a walk in between student sessions 
  • Trying a new hobby - even if just for five minutes
  • Reading a book that isn’t required 
  • Calling family and friends from back home

Live in the Moment!

Overall, it is so sentimental being a senior, but I am so grateful for my time here! So take a deep breath, slow down, and try to live in the moment every day at university. I hope these tips are able to help you have the best experience possible at SAU!

 

Written by SAU Marketing student Elise Miller '27. 

 

A blonde-haired woman, dressed in a blue shirt, standing in front of a tree with her arms crossed.

 

Elise Miller

Hello! My name is Elise, and I am a senior majoring in Digital Communications and Marketing, with a minor in Management. I love being involved on campus and currently work in Advancement, Marketing, Admissions, and as a Presidential Ambassador. When I’m not ordering an iced lavender latte from the Arbor Cafe, I’m probably in the library studying or on a walk, missing my dog, Lucy, who is back home in Ohio. I love reading, writing, and spending time with friends and family! SAU has brought me a great community, and I am so grateful for my time here!