Going back to school for the first time can be daunting, especially if it’s been a while since you hauled textbooks. In fact, it’s a lot like traveling to a foreign country for the first time. There are language barriers (what’s a “syllabus”?), places to get lost in (I’m talking to you, Student Services building), and plenty of locals to help you find your way (Wildcats are generally friendly by nature). Here are just a few tips to help you in your new journey back to campus.

1) Do Your Research

Know before you go—gain as much information as you can about a new place well before ever stepping foot there. Find out where you’re going to be spending most of your time (Social Science, Elizabeth Hall, the Louvre, etc.) and the quickest route between these places. There’s nothing quite like arriving to campus on the first day of the semester and not knowing where your classes are. Also, be sure to account for travel time (driving, parking, and walking).

2) Don’t Over Pack

Travel as light as you can— you’re probably going to be doing a lot of walking, so wear a good pair of shoes and take only what you need for the day (textbooks, pencils, passport, etc.). Nobody likes trucking around unnecessary weight.

3) Take It All In

Campus is a beautiful place— take it all in while you have this chance. Just like some exotic vacation, your time here will end before you know it. So, be sure to take full advantage of your time here. Take in the local art scene (plenty of galleries and performances), get lots of snapshots (the local fowl population makes for great wildlife shots), or simply visit with the locals (make good use of study groups). It’s all up to you, your time here is what you make it.

And don’t forget that when you’re outside the country (and campus), you’re representing the U.S. (and Weber State University), so don’t be that guy—leave the fanny pack and the foldout map at home, all right?