How to Identify a Freshman on Campus: A Light-Hearted Observation

Radio Univers
Radio Univers
5 Min Read

Every academic year begins with a familiar buzz of excitement as university campuses welcome a new crop of students. And if there’s one thing you can count on, it’s that spotting a freshman is as easy as spotting the rising sun. The University of Ghana, as the nation’s premier institution, is no stranger to this annual influx of eager new faces. With its storied reputation and undeniable prestige, the flex of being a Legon student is unmatched, and the freshmen certainly don’t hide their enthusiasm. This article offers you a few tidbits and some fun insights into the telltale signs that scream, “I’m a freshman!” Stay with me—you’re in for some entertaining observations.

To start with, one of the most obvious signs of a freshman is their tendency to appear lost. You’ll see them wandering the campus with a mix of curiosity and slight panic, clutching their phones or maps as they try to make sense of the sprawling lecture halls and administrative offices. Every few steps, they’ll stop someone to ask for directions, often starting with a hesitant “Please, where is the…?” It’s almost a rite of passage for every new student to feel overwhelmed by the size of the campus. Their unsure steps and eager yet nervous expressions are unmistakable clues.

Another major giveaway is their fashion choices. Freshmen often show up with outfits that look like they’ve been carefully curated for the runway. Some dress to impress in flashy, brand-new clothes, while others try to blend in with a more modest approach—but their attempt to fit in sometimes makes them stand out even more. It’s an exciting time, and they want to look their best, though seasoned students know this effort will mellow out by level 200. Soon enough, they’ll trade those elaborate outfits for more practical and comfortable clothing, just like everyone else.

Additionally, there’s the iconic brown envelope—a surefire symbol of a freshman. These envelopes, stuffed with admission letters, registration forms, and other important documents, are their constant companions. You’ll spot them clutching these envelopes as they move from one office to another, waiting in queues with determined yet slightly anxious looks. The queues themselves are another hallmark of freshman life, whether they’re at the cafeteria, the registration centers, or the photocopying shops. It’s almost as if standing in line is part of their introduction to campus life.

To add up to the above, you can also recognize freshmen by their frequent visits to campus washrooms. Whether they’re checking their outfits for the tenth time, taking a moment to calm their nerves, or simply trying to process their new surroundings, the washrooms become their little hideaway. It’s all part of the adjustment process, as they try to find their footing in this unfamiliar environment.

Of course, their trusty backpacks are another clue. Freshmen tend to carry everything they think they might need for the day, from notebooks and water bottles to snacks and maybe even a first-aid kit. Their bags are often packed to the brim, a stark contrast to the lighter loads of more experienced students who’ve learned the art of minimalism over time.

So, next time you spot someone wandering aimlessly, dressed to impress, or clutching a brown envelope, don’t be too quick to judge. These are the telltale signs of a freshman. Instead of poking fun, be a little kind and offer to help them out. After all, every seasoned student was once in their shoes. And to any freshman reading this, just give yourself a few months, and you’ll adjust to the rhythms of campus life. Before you know it, you’ll be the one giving directions, skipping queues, and chuckling at how far you’ve come. Welcome to the journey!

Story by: Karenhappuch Eyison _univers.ug.edu.gh

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