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Though Google search comes in a close second, the best advice comes from learning from others’ experiences. Luckily for the University of Virginia’s incoming Class of 2030, a few rising second-year students shared their reflections on starting life on Grounds.

Second-year School of Engineering and Applied Science student Bridget Ciambotti shared that what makes UVA feel like home is the people. Her advice is “not to stress about finding your friends at school. It is easier than it seems because all the other first-years are trying to meet people, too.”

Similarly, second-year McIntire School of Commerce student Aadya Reddy recommends seeking out upper-level students who can offer insight about classes, professional opportunities and �鶹�ƽ�� social scene. 

An applied physics major at UVA, Lowit stresses the importance of seeking connections beyond the classroom by going to office hours and events. (Contributed photos)

“I wish I knew that it’s really easy to become friends with people older than you,” she said.  “Becoming friends with upperclassmen is so good because I’m always able to get help. I’m glad that I always have someone to turn to.” 

Beyond social experiences, academic life is another major shift. Reddy came to UVA knowing she wanted to study business. Still, she found exploring classes broadened her perspective.

“When you first come to UVA, you’re going to be convinced to take classes corresponding to what you want to do in the future,” Reddy said. “I wish I knew that it is OK to take the crazy classes. This is the best time to explore.” 

For incoming athletes, Ciambotti emphasizes the importance of rest, organization and finding the routines that work for you. (Contributed photos)

For example, a global development class deepened her understanding of global economies, while a psychology class sparked her interest in behavioral economics. 

Beyond attending classes, forming relationships with professors is another great way to receive academic support and advice. 

“Go to office hours. Every time I’ve gone to office hours, something good has happened,” second-year College of Arts & Sciences student Eleanor Lowit said. “It helped me comprehend everything better than in class, and I got help on my classwork, made connections, and learned about the cool things my professors were doing.”

With events, assignments and personal obligations overlapping, it is also important to find new ways to stay organized. 

“A calendar is crucial for time management, which is crucial for everyone,” Ciambotti said. “It took a while to get used to having assignments on three or more platforms for each class, so I found that having all the due dates constrained to one platform, like a calendar, helped me stop forgetting about assignments.”

Reddy poses with groups of friends during a hike and on game day. She says it’s important to build up a support system on Grounds and to explore during the first year. (Contributed photos)

From game days dressed in orange and blue to Bodo’s Bagel runs, UVA students bring that same dedication to the activities, sports and hobbies they pursue on Grounds.

In addition to her coursework, Ciambotti is a semiprofessional cyclist. She said, “Being an athlete requires skills in being able to prioritize activities, the most important being sleep.” 

“One of my biggest struggles is being too exhausted to do work. Here, you have to be gracious to yourself and allow rest and recovery so you can efficiently complete assignments later.”