A more proper term for college "orientation" is "disorientation." My first week of college life was packed with various workshops, social activities, and tours, designed to help introduce excited yet anxious freshman, like me, to the college experience. These events were often fun and informative; yet it is no surprise that when adjusting to a totally new sleeping, eating, socializing, and studying schedule, more often than not, one winds up confused.

In my first week of college life, an abundance of information was presented in a short period. But now, as the third week progresses, and as classes settle into a normal routine, and friendships with floor- and class-mates strengthen, the confusion of orientation week lessens. I still have a drawer full of crinkled papers. Yet now I'm finding the information presented in orientation workshops now have relevance and applicability to my new life.

Orientation can be a disorientating time; in between the fun comedy shows and giveaways of free water bottles and t-shirts, there comes the stress of preparing for classes and discovering a new routine of independence (and yes, doing laundry on one's own!). Yet this, too, will pass. My advice to next year's college freshman: Take advantage of the free programs sponsored by your college during orientation, both social and academic. They will help acquaint you with your campus and college resources, and connect you with new friends. Orientation, whether lasting for a day or a whole week, can be both worthwhile and fun.