Hey future Trojans! I remember my own Future Trojan Day like it was yesterday. The nervous butterflies in my stomach while trying not to look too nervous. Scanning the crowds and secretly wondering if I’d really fit in here. I had no idea what to expect, but looking back, that day gave me my first real glimpse of what life at Anderson University could be like for me. Now that I’ve been through my first two years here, I want to share everything I wish I’d known before stepping on campus so that you can make the most of your visit, meet new people, and start imagining your next four years in the best way possible! 

Future Trojan Day is designed just for you, the incoming class. It’s not just a regular tour. You’ll hear from current students (like me!) sharing tips we wish we’d known before starting college, you’ll get to go into and explore the residence halls, and there’s even an outdoor cookout with lawn games. There’s also plenty of time to ask all the small and random questions you might have to staff and admissions counselors. Honestly, that part of the day helped me more than I expected because you can get answers about everything from what life is like in the dorm to classes to chapel and all the different clubs and campus ministries you can get involved in.

The one thing I was most excited about when I came for my Future Trojan Day was feeling my way through campus. It wasn’t just about seeing the buildings or checking off the activities but it was about noticing how people interacted, the vibe of campus, and imagining what my life could look like here. It was a mix of little moments that slowly made me realize I could really picture myself at Anderson.

My biggest tip is: step outside your comfort zone. I know it’s tempting to stick with whoever you came with (I did that at first), but some of the best parts of the day come from talking to new people. Everyone is in the same position. Everyone is nervous, excited, and just hoping to connect with people and fit in. Ask seemingly simple questions, join in on group conversations, sit next to someone new. All of this might feel awkward at first, but it’s how friendships start. Some of the people I met at Future Trojan Day last year are still my closest friends today.

Also, be present in the moment. Don’t just rush from one activity to the next or spend the whole day staring down at your phone. Take a moment to imagine what a normal day here would feel like. Could you see yourself living in the dorms, going to classes, making friends here? Pay attention to what excites you and what feels right. And don’t worry if you feel nervous because that’s totally normal and it’s actually part of the experience.

Future Trojan Day isn’t just a tour or an event but it’s a chance to start picturing your life at Anderson. The friendships you might make, the memories you’ll create, the growth you’ll experience over the next four years. It all starts here. So take a deep breath, say hi to someone new, ask all your questions, and let yourself fully enjoy the day. Before you know it, you’ll be back in the fall ready to start your first semester here as an official Trojan, and I promise you, it’s worth it.

See you soon, future Trojans!