We’ve all experienced the joys of attending summer orientation, or for those of us at the University of Florida, “Preview.” It’s an exciting time because you’re coming to campus and checking things out, but also super stressful because you’re supposed to figure out your whole life in two days!

Whaaaaaaat?!

Now, I’ve seen my share of Preview sessions. As a 2012 Preview staffer, I can say Preview holds a near and dear place in my heart. There are so many new students and family members, ideas and thoughts, and hopes and dreams that come through Preview.

But what exactly should you expect when attending Preview? What’s it all about? I’ll break it down for you.

First, you’ll be greeted by these really energetic and friendly students who just love Preview. They’re a certain type of breed. They’re the Preview Staffers! You’ll be assigned a Preview Staffer that will help you navigate through orientation. They’ll help you pick your classes, explain ISIS (the online academic platform), and they’ll pretty much “show you the ropes,” if you will. Use your Preview staffers! Ask them any questions you may have. Trust me, they love this stuff. And it doesn’t necessarily have to just be academic related. Ask them to share their college experience. They’ve pretty much heard it all. Like I said, they love this stuff.

Second, you’ll have to choose a major. Now don’t freak out! I had a lot of students who stressed out about having to “figure out their life.” You don’t have to figure out your life at Preview. You figure out your life during life. Just pick a major that interests you and that you feel you’ll enjoy learning about. And if you don’t know what that is yet, it’s OK. Take the exploratory route! Personally, I wish I would have done this as a freshman. It would have given me a broader arena to try out all my interests. Either way, just know that you’ll probably change your major. And that’s OK. It’s part of the process!

Third, you will get a lot of information. You don’t have to remember everything. Most of it you’ll learn along the way. But just try to soak it all in as best as you can, and know you’ll have to ask a lot of questions later. That’s fine.

Fourth, you’ll remember people from your Preview. You will. It sounds kinda crazy since there will be so many people there but you’ll remember them and probably see them around campus. So take the opportunity to be friendly and make some new friends! Everyone is on the same boat. They’re the “new kid,” so be the new kids together. It’s a pretty cool camaraderie you’ll have.

Fifth, on Day 2, you’ll take your picture for you student ID. Depending on your schedule, you might do it first thing or you’ll have to wait until later in the day. Either way, just be ready!

Sixth, bring an umbrella or poncho. I’m so serious. You’ll thank me. I promise. Nothing is worse than wet clothes in air conditioning.

And lastly, you’ll meet people who are bringing in a million credits and have amazing SAT/ACT scores. They’ll seem to have it all together. Don’t be intimidated. They’re just as anxious as you. And remember, you got accepted here too! You’re supposed to be here.

Enjoy it! You made it. Welcome to the Gator Nation. Welcome home.