Jan. 14, 2022
The University of Missouri is a big place with lots to offer. Whether you’re an incoming freshman, a transfer student or a seasoned vet, here’s our take on Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide — filled with tips for finding your place at MU.
- All students, faculty and staff are strongly urged to get vaccinated. Find more information and upcoming on-campus vaccination events.
- The university asks you to wear a quality, well-fitting mask while indoors or in crowded outdoor settings.
- All students, faculty and staff are strongly urged to get vaccinated and upload an image of their COVID-19 vaccination records or cards. Stay aware of your health and stay home if you feel sick.
- Please remember to stay home if you are sick, even if your symptoms are mild.
- Mizzou has numerous resources to support students, faculty and staff who may be dealing with COVID-19.
- Faculty, staff and students are required to report a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.
- For more information and resources, visit renewal.missouri.edu.
- Follow Mizzou social media accounts and @stufftodoatmu (that’s where you find out about free things happening on campus).
- Subscribe to Involvement Ambassador emails and go to the Get Involved Fair. MU has more than 600 student organizations on campus. If you are unsure of what group to pick, the involvement ambassadors can meet with you directly to find the best org for you.
- Memorize your student ID number; you need to know it for events, exams and for when you forget your student ID card.
- Visit MizzouOne.missouri.edu or download the MizzouOne app for access to hundreds of student-focused resources.
- Download the GoMizzou app. It tells you the hours for the 27 dining facilities on campus, which Tiger Line bus routes are running and where a bus is on its route.
- Use Schedule Planner to create a schedule that fits your needs.
- Take the bus home from your assigned parking lot. Tiger Line buses run from student parking lots to campus from 4:50 a.m. to midnight and are a safe and free — not to mention quicker — way to get back to your car.
- Pro tip: Use the Mizzou grade distribution database when considering professors/electives. This resource can tell you what grades your professors have given in previous semesters.
- Take advantage of the Mizzou Market (you can use your dining plan there). These mini grocery stores inside Pershing Commons on Hitt Street and Center Hall in Southwest Housing can save you a trip off campus for basic needs (and both have a Subway that can use your dining plan credits).
- Go ahead and practice saying your name, year, major, hometown and a fun fact about yourself. … You’ll need it for class introductions.
- Wear comfy shoes — you’re going to be walking a lot.
- Find your go-to study space, both on and off campus.
- Pro tip: Check out our study spaces story for some ideas on where to start.
- It’s OK to use GPS to find your classes but pay attention to where you’re going. Campus is closed to vehicle traffic, but you’ll still want to watch out for bikes, skateboards and scooters.
- Take some time to wander around campus before the first day of classes so you can find all of your classrooms and get the lay of the land.
- Take advantage of MizzouRec. From TigerX fitness classes, to indoor and outdoor pools, steam rooms, workout equipment and more — there’s truly something for everyone. The best part? Access is included in your student fees.
- For those interested in organized sports, the Rec also offers both recreational and club sports — a great way to make friends and stay active.
- Your dormmates are your built-in family; enjoy getting to know them.
- Write your notes by hand to help you remember the material better. You can always type them later (which is also good for studying).
- Introduce yourself to your professors/teaching assistants (TAs). The face-to-face contact can help you with your class and provides a good networking opportunity.
- Stay organized by making a list of all of your assignments and when they’re due.
- It’s OK to ask for extensions when there’s an actual purpose — another reason you should get to know your professors and TAs.
- Don’t go to class when you’re sick.
- Pro tip: Email your professors to let them know when you won’t be there, even if it is a big lecture hall.
- If you need accommodations, contact the Disability Center.
- Be prepared: Don’t forget your chargers, water, extra pens and pencils, your student ID and headphones (don’t be that person).
- Pay attention to parking rules on campus and downtown: You WILL get a ticket.
- If you’re new to the Midwest, the tornado sirens go off at noon on the first Wednesday of every month — don’t panic.
- On a related note, we’re in Missouri, and the weather can turn on a dime. Check the forecast in the morning and prepare for whatever the day might bring. When possible, campus will stay open during winter weather. Review the inclement weather policy for more information.
- Pro tip: Be sure to sign up for MU Alert.
- Don’t forget to keep up with your mental and physical health. The Student Health Center on Hitt Street is a place where providers are dedicated to seeing students.
- There are many amazing restaurants in CoMo and within walking distance of campus — check them out!
Story written by Madalyn Murry
