The Do’s and Don’ts for First-Semester Jayhawks at the University of Kansas

The Do’s and Don’ts for First-Semester Jayhawks at the University of Kansas

Whether you’re a freshman or a new transfer, starting your first semester at KU is an exciting new chapter! But we get it, navigating a new campus, settling into life in Lawrence, and managing college-level coursework can feel overwhelming. To help you start strong, here are some key do’s and don’ts every new Jayhawk should keep in mind during their first semester at the University of Kansas.

Do’s as a First-Semester KU Student Living in Lawrence

• Do take advantage of KU campus resources
  Your tuition covers way more than just lectures. KU offers tons of free resources designed to help you succeed. Check out the Academic Learning Center for tutoring, academic coaching, and skill-building workshops. Struggling emotionally? Counseling And Psychological Services (CAPS) supports your mental health. And for study spots, don’t miss Watson Library or the quiet corners of the Union.
• Do get involved early
  Adjusting to life on campus gets easier when you build your community. KU has over 600 student organizations, including clubs for every interest, identity, and hobby. Whether you join Greek life, play intramural sports, attend open mic nights at The Commons, or get involved with Student Senate, finding your people makes KU feel like home.
• Do explore off-campus
  Lawrence is a vibrant college town with a personality all its own. Grab a coffee from J&S, take a walk down Mass Street, see a movie at Liberty Hall, or hike around Clinton Lake. You’ll find live music, great food, vintage shops, and plenty of local events year-round. Exploring Lawrence is part of what makes the KU experience so memorable.

Don’ts as a First-Semester Jayhawk

• Don’t ignore your KU email
  Nobody loves checking email, but it’s non-negotiable here. Professors, advisors, and campus offices will all contact you through your KU email, and missing those messages could mean missing class changes, scholarship info, housing updates, or key deadlines. Set up your notifications and check it regularly.
• Don’t rely on high school study habits
  College coursework at KU requires more time, independence, and depth than high school. Pulling an all-nighter before the test or using AI summaries for readings won’t cut it anymore. Create a consistent study schedule, use office hours, and join study groups. The earlier you adapt, the better your semester will go.
• Don’t underestimate Kansas weather
  Lawrence weather can be unpredictable. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s storming. The beginning of the semester is often hot and humid, followed by sudden thunderstorms or early cold snaps. Keep a reusable water bottle, wear layers, and don’t forget a rain jacket or umbrella. In the Midwest, weather prep is key to staying comfortable and on time.

Your First Semester at KU Is Just the Beginning

Starting college is a huge transition, and it’s completely normal to feel unsure at times—that’s part of the growth process. But keeping these do’s and don’ts in mind can help you reduce stress and make the most of your first few months as a Jayhawk. Put yourself out there, take care of yourself, and remember, you’ve got an entire KU community here to support you.

Rock Chalk, Jayhawk!

FAQs for First-Semester KU Students

• What campus resources should I use first at KU? The Academic Learning Center is great for tutoring and coaching, while CAPS provides mental health support.
• How do I make friends during my first semester at KU? Join a club, intramural team, or attend campus events. KU has over 600 organizations to help you find your community.
• How should I prepare for Kansas weather? Carry layers, a water bottle, and a rain jacket or umbrella. Expect hot, humid days and sudden storms.
• Is Lawrence a good town for students to explore? Yes! Mass Street, Liberty Hall, and Clinton Lake are just a few of the must-do spots for KU students.