You committed to Rollins! Now what?

By: Susana Trost –  Epidemiology

Your applications are completed, you’ve done your research on programs, and you’ve received and accepted your offer of admission at Rollins. So, what comes next? Transitioning to a new school (and maybe a new city) can feel overwhelming but taking some time to prepare this summer can help make this transition easier so you are all set for the upcoming school year.

Be sure to set-up your Emory email and check it regularly throughout the summer because all important reminders, deadlines, and information will be sent to your account. Joining the accepted student Facebook page is also a great way to stay on top of important deadlines as well as meet new friends and potential roommates.

Academic wise, spend time understanding your program’s course requirements and exploring electives you are interested in taking. That way, you are ready to go once course registration opens during the summer. You will be asked to complete pre-semester courses and trainings online, so you make sure you leave some time to get those finished before the craziness of the semester sets in.

Job postings for REAL positions will go live in early August, and the summer is an excellent time to update your resume so you are ready to apply once the applications are available. Be sure take advantage of the resources posted on the Office of Career Development’s website as you work on your resume and cover letters.

New Student Orientation in August is one of the best ways to prepare for your time at Rollins. Held the week before classes begin, orientation offers opportunities to find your way around the school, meet your new peers, and ask any lingering questions. Most days will involve different workshops to help you become familiar with all things Rollins. These meetings will cover everything from setting up your computer to meeting the ADAPs and professors in your specific department. My favorite part of orientation was the Day of Service. Students head out to various service projects across the city to spend the morning volunteering. The Day of Service is a great way to meet new friends and learn about the public health needs right in our own backyard. Be sure to check the orientation emails for more information on registering for events and choosing your volunteer site.

Reading may not be at the top of your summer to-do list, but I highly recommend taking advantage of the common reader. Assigned to all incoming first-year students, the chosen book will offer you new perspectives on a public health-related topic while providing opportunities for discussion with your classmates. During orientation, you will attend a presentation at CDC that relates to the book’s main topic or theme. Afterwards, students are given the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the speaker. Reading the book ahead of time will ensure you can make the most of this day.

Now that you know what to expect, spend some time relaxing and exploring your interests this summer. Grad school can be overwhelming, and it’s important to take some time for yourself before diving back into school. The only thing left to do is take advantage of all that Rollins has to offer, we can’t wait to see you in August!