The good news? You don't have to have it all figured out. Your first year is about finding your people, discovering what you're capable of, and learning how to make Flagler feel like home.
We asked the faculty and staff who work with Saints every day to share their best advice for making the most of your first year. From getting involved and asking for help to trying something new and taking advantage of opportunities, here are nine tips to help you start your Saints journey strong.
Tip 1 | Focus on the Fundamentals
“The Center for Advising and Core Experience (CACE) advisors share a simple mantra with new students to help them focus on the essentials when college feels overwhelming or confusing:
Go to class.
Turn things in.
Check your Flagler email.
Ask for help early and often.
Consistent attendance, submitting assignments on time, staying informed, and seeking support are habits that can make a big difference. But asking for help is often both the hardest and most important.
Remember that you are your own best advocate, and we want you to seek us out and ask for help when you need it!”
Tip 2 | Try Something Outside of your Comfort Zone
“Try something. Whether it’s attending a club meeting, checking out an event on the West Lawn, attending a lecture sponsored by your major, or visiting a local coffee shop with some of your floormates, all we ask is for you to try. Magic happens outside of your comfort zone, and you never know what could come from trying something new!”
Tip 3 | Prioritize Time for your Academic Work
“One of the best things students can do from the start of the semester is schedule time to complete their academic work. Students can use the Learning Resource Center’s (LRC) Accountability Center to check in for a course of their choice, work independently, and know that if they have a question or just need some reassurance, a tutor is nearby.
Professors receive weekly reports detailing which of their students use the LRC, making this a great way to let them know you are serious about their course. Appointments are available but not required. Just stop by the LRC on the first floor of the Proctor Library, and we'll help you get started.”
Tip 4 | Have a Dining Question? Just Ask!
“My one piece of advice for incoming students is this: Don’t be afraid to ask. There are no bad questions, especially when it comes to navigating campus dining.
For whatever reason, some students can be hesitant to ask questions. For example, they might want to know if we have peanut butter (we do), how to get plain water out of the drink machines (there’s a button by the lemonade), or how to take food to go. We are always willing to help!”
Tip 5 | Order Your Books Early
“Place your book order as early as possible after you finish registering for classes. Ordering early means your books will be ready and waiting for you when you walk into your first day of class fully prepared.”
BONUS TIP: Take advantage of Flagler First Day Complete
Flagler First Day Complete is a course materials rental program that ensures students have all required textbooks, digital resources, and access codes before classes start at a predictable, flat price each semester: $330 for full-time students and $165 for part-time students.
Enrollment happens automatically when students register for eligible courses, but they always have the option to opt out if they prefer to purchase their materials independently.
Learn more about Flagler First Day Complete here.
Tip 6 | When in Doubt, Reach Out to IT
“Please submit a ticket to IT via email if you have any questions or concerns about access, connecting to a printer, password resets, Wi-Fi issues, or anything else related to your technology needs. We are here to help!”
For assistance, email support@flagler.edu or call (904) 819-6293.
Check out the New Student Technology guide here.
Tip 7 | Make Your Residence Hall Feel Like Home
“Your residence hall is so much more than a place to live and sleep! It’s one of the first places where you’ll build a community, meet people who may be very different from you, and learn how to navigate sharing a space.
Take the time to get to know your neighbors, introduce yourself to someone new, and participate in floor programs and campus events, even when it feels a little outside your comfort zone. Your RA is there to help you navigate the experience, build connections, and make your residence hall feel like home!”
Tip 8 | Find your Saints Spirit!
“Take advantage of the many perks Flagler College offers its students, including free admission to all home athletic events.
Our incredible teams and student-athletes feed off your support and energy at every game, and we hope you'll join us this season to meet new friends, make memories, and experience the Saints spirit.
You never know which game might become your new favorite tradition!”
Check out the Saints Athletics composite calendar here.
Tip 9 | Show Up, Get Involved, and Find your Flagler Family
“Now is your chance to try anything. Don't be afraid to show up to an event, activity, or club meeting alone, because the people who share your interests and could become part of your Flagler Family may be waiting for you on the other side of that door.
Also, gym memberships and yoga classes are expensive after you graduate, so take advantage of all the resources available to you while you can!”
Be sure to regularly check Saints Connect for a full schedule of events and recreation opportunities.
