Navigating NOLA
If you were to describe the city of New Orleans, you probably wouldn't describe it as a college town. Yet, the city is a thriving educational hub.
Institutions including the University of New Orleans, Tulane University, and Loyola University attract students from across the globe to come here and create their own unique college experiences. The city also has three well-established historically Black colleges and universities (Xavier University, Dillard University, and Southern University at New Orleans), along with a plethora of other colleges, including Delgado Community College and LSU Medical School.
Despite the city's reputation for partying and nonstop activities, the schools in New Orleans manage to maintain their academic excellence and beautiful campuses. They do this while also embracing the city's rich cultural heritage, creating a unique balance that sets them apart.
While New Orleans is a college town in its own right, could you imagine coming to this wonderfully crazy city as an out-of-state student? Being a city with constant entertaining distractions, it may take a lot of work to focus and navigate all of the madness.
So how do you survive and thrive here? From someone who has worked at a couple of colleges and interacted with many newbies, here are a few tips that will help you not only get your education but also adjust and make the most of your time in this great city.
Be Smart and Stay Safe
Let's first get the negativity out of the way. We've all seen the news, heard the stories, and understand that any popular city will come with crime. That's why staying safe requires a few essential precautions. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas. It's crucial to keep a list of emergency contacts, including campus security and local police, readily accessible. Additionally, always lock your doors and windows and secure your valuables to prevent theft. And please don't leave things visible in your car.
Getting Around Town
While many locals choose to drive and many college students will arrive here with their own cars, there are also many that do not. The good news is that getting around New Orleans is fairly easy. Public transportation is available and affordable, so get familiar with the Regional Transit Authority. For the uptown students, the St. Charles streetcar line is especially useful and can take you from uptown to the downtown area. For more flexibility and a great way to stay in shape, many people use bikes as their method of transportation. While nothing is perfect, the city is becoming increasingly bike-friendly with new lanes and paths. Walking is also an option. Many neighborhoods, particularly those around universities, are walkable. As always, be mindful of safety.
Get Involved and Stay Informed
There are so many ways to get involved in the city, whether it's on or off campus. Participating in orientation events is crucial for new students as it provides an opportunity to meet peers and learn about the different activities, along with finding out the resources available on campus. Getting involved in campus clubs, organizations, and activities is another excellent way to make friends and build a support network. Additionally, taking advantage of academic resources such as tutoring centers, libraries, and advising services can greatly enhance your educational experience and success.
Don't Be Afraid to Be Social
One thing you will learn quickly about this city is that "social" is its middle name. Of course it's important to get your studies done, but why come to a city like this if you aren't going to enjoy all it has to offer? With the plethora of constant activities, festivals, parties, and events around the city, there is seemingly always something to do. Be sure to responsibly indulge. Take time to explore New Orleans' rich culture, music, food, and festivals by visiting vibrant neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Marigny, and Uptown. Be open to meeting new people and attend social events to build a diverse group of friends.
Balance is Key And Health is Wealth
New Orleans can be very hot and humid during much of the year, so it's essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. While enjoying the city's delicious local cuisine, balance it with healthy eating habits by making use of campus dining options and local farmers' markets. Additionally, maintain an active lifestyle by using campus recreational facilities or exploring the city's stunning parks.
Party But Not too Hard
Yes, New Orleans has a bar and partying scene that's very easy to get caught up in. However, while it's tempting, it's crucial to act and drink responsibly. The city's enticing array of cocktails, cheap beers, festivals, bar culture, and major events like Mardi Gras can quickly lead to overindulgence. Drinking too much can not only spoil your experience but affect your studies. Enjoy but do so responsibly.
Things May Seem Cheaper, But Be Careful
While inflation is real, it's safe to say that the day-to-day life and leisure of living in the Big Easy isn't as expensive as some other major cities; however, things do add up quickly. Manage your finances effectively. Keep track of your expenses. Make use of student discounts and affordable dining options. If necessary, consider finding a part-time job or work-study position to help cover expenses and gain valuable work experience.
Respect the Culture
New Orleans is known and loved for its culture and traditions. It's definitely okay to participate and enjoy these things but be sure to respect them and the people who have been here celebrating, creating, and participating in these experiences for decades. Remember to be open-minded and don't hesitate to engage with the local community by participating in volunteer work or attending cultural events. By immersing yourself in the local culture and contributing positively, you can deepen your connection to the city, expand your horizon, and get to know the people.
