First-year students: How to start strong at the College of Business
Starting college for the first time is an exciting milestone full of possibility, growth, and new experiences. At Oregon State University, you are stepping into a community that is ready to support you from day one. While this transition can feel overwhelming at times, it’s also a time to explore who you are, what you value, and what you want your future to look like. You will meet new people, encounter new ideas, and discover opportunities that help shape your academic and personal journey.
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. From academic support to student organizations and wellness resources, OSU has built-in systems designed to help you succeed and feel connected. There are people here who genuinely want to see you thrive and will support you every step of the way.
First-year students join Innovation Nation, a living-learning community for business and design students. You will live, learn and create alongside your peers in Weatherford and Poling residence halls, just across from Austin Hall.
In your classes, you will learn in small cohorts and work on team projects. At the same time, you and a small group of peers will launch a microbusiness. You will develop a product, build a business plan, and take it to market. In the DAMLab makerspace, you will get hands-on experience bringing your ideas to life.
You will market and sell your product, earning real profit along the way. By graduation, you will have real-world business experience and a standout story for your resume.
As you begin this journey, give yourself permission to be both excited and uncertain. Take things one step at a time, stay open to new experiences, and trust that growth comes with time. The following ideas will help you make the most of your first year while staying grounded, motivated, and supported.
advice from the student engagement team
We’re excited to see what you’ll do next. Stay curious, get involved and don’t be afraid to reach out when you need help. Our team is here for you now.
First and foremost, remember to have fun.
Your years at Oregon State will be ones you remember forever, so take lots of pictures, journal your experiences, and really soak it all in. Over the summer, create a visual or media representation of what you want your college journey to look like, and let it inspire your goals and daily decisions. Staying connected to that vision can help you maintain excitement and purpose during both fun and challenging moments.
Rest.
Your brain and body are going through a major transition as you enter college life. Getting into the habit of resting before jumping into new or difficult situations will benefit you long term. Many students wait until they feel burned out before taking breaks, but prioritizing sleep, downtime, and wellness early supports stronger focus, resilience, and overall success.
Know your why (or be in the process of figuring it out).
Many people will share their reasons for why you should be at OSU or join certain clubs and activities, but your personal “why” matters most. Keep it simple and meaningful, whether it’s a long-term goal or something you’re still exploring. Let it guide your decisions, motivate your efforts, and remind you why continuing forward is worth it.
Ask others for advice or help.
Seek out people who have gone through similar transitions, whether they are peers, mentors, or staff members. Find individuals who believe in you and are willing to share their experiences and encouragement. Asking for help is not a weakness—it’s a strength. Many successful leaders rely on support networks, and you are encouraged to do the same.
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