Montana Freshman Survival Guide: What Students Should Know

For students starting college in Montana this fall, the first year often brings a mix of excitement and big adjustments. Whether it’s the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana State in Bozeman, or one of the state’s smaller campuses, the jump from high school to college life can feel like a big shift. Our listeners called in and used the Z100 app to send us their favorite tips for college freshmen.  

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One of the most common tips, is to get familiar with your campus early. Know where your classes are, where to grab food between lectures, and where the library and study spaces are located. Montana weather can be unpredictable, so having a plan for snowy mornings and icy sidewalks will also come in handy. 

Balancing Fun and Academics

A listener offered a great piece of advice: ease up on the alcohol. Partying may seem like the priority on the college agenda, but too much of a good time can cause problems with school deadlines, not to mention professors scolding you for showing up late to class smelling like alcohol.  

Joining a campus group or club is a good way to meet people. Montana schools have a wide range of options, from outdoor recreation clubs that take advantage of the state’s trails and ski slopes, to student organizations focused on academics, arts, or community service. A listener said to make a friend early, “On days when it gets too hard, it is nice to have someone to say Yes, you can!”  

Time Management for College Success

Managing your time is key. College schedules here can vary a lot; some days might be packed, while others leave big gaps between classes. Using those open hours to study, run errands, or explore the surrounding area can help you stay ahead. 

It’s also worth knowing about campus resources. Academic advising, tutoring centers, and career services are available on most Montana campuses. Many schools also have student wellness programs and counseling services. 

Finally, make time to enjoy the place you live. Whether it’s hiking the “M” in Missoula, skiing at Bridger Bowl near Bozeman, or taking a weekend trip to Glacier or Yellowstone, the state offers plenty to explore outside the classroom. 

READ MORE: Metallica Scholars: Transforming Futures At Montana’s Top Community College

Starting college in Montana is about finding balance between studies, campus life, and the outdoors, and learning to navigate all three. If you know of a Freshman starting college this year, we have some more tips you can share with them: 

10 Tips for College Freshmen:

1. Go to class: You’ll learn more than what’s on the slides. 
2. Manage your time: Use a calendar to track assignments and deadlines. 
3. Budget wisely: Avoid running out of money before the semester ends. 
4. Meet your professors: Office hours are your friend. 
5. Use campus resources: Tutoring, career services, and counseling are often. 
6. Balance work and fun: Don’t burn out before midterms. 
7. Wait to buy textbooks: Check if you really need them first. 
8. Get involved: Clubs and activities help you meet people. 
9. Communicate with your roommate: Set boundaries early. 
10. Take care of yourself: Sleep, eat well, and exercise when you can.