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The Spark is the official blog of Alfred University, created to illuminate the dynamic experiences, creative achievements, and unique perspectives of our student community. The Spark captures the essence of what it means to be a Saxon. Whether you're a prospective student dreaming of your next chapter, or a current Saxon shaping your journey, let The Spark guide you.

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Your First Months at Alfred: What to Expect & Enjoy

Posted By Valeriia Radko

Jan 15, 2026 | Campus Life & Culture Clubs & Organizations Current Students General Blogs Parents & Families Pre-College

Starting your first semester of college can feel stressful—but it’s also an exciting milestone. At Alfred University, your journey will be filled with new experiences, fresh challenges, and incredible opportunities to grow academically and personally. Here’s what to expect during your first months and a few tips to help you make the most of them.

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Your First Big Event

Your Alfred experience begins with Welcome Week, a four-day tradition designed to help students settle in and learn about campus life before classes start. You’ll attend sessions that introduce college resources, community values, and expectations—but it’s not all formal meetings!

Welcome Week includes fun, student-favorite activities like:

Opening BBQ – A chance for students and families to relax, enjoy good food, and meet new people.
Allen Walk & Opening Convocation – Events that officially mark the start of your semester and bring the entire class together.
Playfair – A high-energy icebreaker where freshmen connect through games and laughter.

Hear It From a Student

Vladyslava Makarenko, a student at Alfred University

Many students say Welcome Week was a highlight of their first semester. Vladyslava Makarenko, a first-year student in the College of Business, shared:

"The highlight of my Welcome Week was s’mores with the Senate, where I met a lot of new people and made connections. I also enjoyed having free time to make new friends."

Activities You Won’t Want to Miss

The fun doesn’t stop after Welcome Week. Throughout the semester, Alfred offers plenty of ways to explore campus and beyond:

Sunday Series – Off-campus adventures to places like museums, state fairs, sporting events, and even Niagara Falls. Just sign up through AU Connect.
Living Learning Communities (LLC) – Events like pancake breakfasts, movie nights, and “Pie Your RA” help you bond with hallmates and make your dorm feel like home.
Student Activities Board – Organizes unique events such as karaoke, trivia, themed craft nights, and open mic nights. Each semester brings new ideas—some even become traditions!

Inside the First-Year Classroom

Academics at Alfred are designed for a smooth transition. Small classes mean professors know your name and create a friendly, supportive environment. One key resource is the First Year Experience (FYE) course, which helps students navigate challenges, build academic responsibility, and connect with the AU community.

You’ll also have access to office hours, tutoring, writing centers, and library resources. Outside the classroom, clubs and organizations offer opportunities to meet like-minded peers and grow personally as well as academically.

Common Struggles & Simple Solutions

Your first semester will be exciting—but challenges like homesickness, loneliness, and time management are common. Here are a few tips:

Feeling homesick? Join campus activities and clubs to meet new people and feel more connected.
Roommate conflicts? Set expectations early and communicate openly.
Time management struggles? Stay organized and prioritize healthy habits. "Managing sports with academics was the hardest part at first," Vlada shared. "I had to learn how to balance practice, classes, and sleep. Staying organized and focusing on healthy habits really helped me get through it."

Final Tips

Your first semester at Alfred will be full of opportunities—academics, friendships, independence, and fun. Challenges will come, but they’re part of the journey. Use campus resources, get involved, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Every experience, good or bad, helps you grow—and this is just the beginning of your exciting college adventure!

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