Incoming-Students, Admissions
Amazing Advice for Rising Freshmen: 5 Tips from First-Year Admissions Counselors
March 26, 2026
For incoming students who are learning how to navigate through a new environment, there are many approaches to feeling comfortable and safe while embarking on the college experience. Before getting caught up in the overwhelm and excitement, remember that your professors, mentors, and college counselors are here to help.
Here are the top five tips from first-year admissions counselors at Concordia University Texas!
1. Do not be afraid to ask questions.
Starting your first-year of college is a big step, and having questions is a natural part of the experience. Concordia Texas’ first-year admissions counselor and recruiting coordinator Christina Day encourages incoming students to ask questions. “Don’t think we’re here to judge, stress, any of that,” says Christina. “We’ve all gone through the college experience, so just ask us your questions!”
2. Being nervous about college is normal.
“Starting a new chapter in life can be nerve wracking,” says first-year admissions counselor Alexa Valladeres. “Sometimes it’s important to embrace that.” Alexa primarily works with Spanish-speaking families and students from first-generation backgrounds. “We’re a support system,” she says. “We’re here to advocate for them and help them as much as possible.”
3. People are here to help you.
Starting college can be tough, so it is important to recognize and accept people who want to help you. Darius King is a first-year admissions counselor at CTX who works with incoming student athletes. “I like building these relationships with these students and parents,” he says. “You get to see somebody take their next steps in life.” The CTX community is always here to help. “I’m always seeing someone smiling at me, and it makes me want to smile back.”
4. Get involved in opportunities.
The endless opportunities colleges offer can be intimidating, but jumping into at least one thing is definitely worth it. Hannah Kilpatrick has been a first-year admissions counselor for three years, and she always encourages incoming students to take opportunities. “Choose one thing to get involved in and just try it out even if it’s uncomfortable,” she says. CTX offers so many opportunities to help students grow. “There’s always something fun going on!” says Hannah.
5. Get to know your admissions team!
Finally, meet with your admissions team. “Come to our events!” encourages Christina. The admissions team at CTX is friendly and welcoming. They show up for you! “We do so many events each month,” Christina says. “If you see us at your college fair, come talk to us too!”
The atmosphere at Concordia University Texas is warm and welcoming. From exhilarating sports games to endless academic opportunities, the faculty and staff at CTX are always open to help incoming college students learn, grow, and have fun. According to Hannah, the most unique aspect CTX has to offer is the one-on-one support from professors, coaches, and mentors. “That’s what really sets us apart,” she says.
The best way to find out more about CTX is to experience it for yourself! Our awe-inspiring nature preserve and home-like small community are waiting for you! Check out our admissions team and set up a meeting today:
Meet the Admissions TeamAbout the Author
Abby Shaivitz is a first-year student at Concordia University Texas majoring in Psychology. She hopes to help children see the world as a place where they can thrive and grow. In addition to her studies, Abby works as a Digital Content Associate for the University’s Ultraviolet Student Agency. Driven by her passion for all things creative, she can often be found writing wherever inspiration strikes, sketching in her notebook during class, or playing piano in the campus music practice rooms.
