Tips for Your Transition to APUG 

"The community within APUG is so beautiful because of the support I feel we give one another. My advisors and teachers that I have had are people who truly care about what they are teaching you, and it makes you excited to learn what they are excited to teach. I have also found a strong foundation of friends that have similar values as me, making this never feel like a journey I have to accomplish on my own." 

Sola Minotti

"My friends! Most of my friends I've met through APUG classes and during orientation. I shared many of my First Year classes with the same group of people, and when you are going through those early moments of figuring things out together, it creates connections that just stick." 

Kristy Xie

"I love how we have lot's of classes with the same people because it helps build connections really easily."  

Annie Chang

"I have met so many amazing APUG students and faculty through attending APUG-sponsored events! Try to create genuine connections in your New Student Seminar cohort, as they will be your classmates for the next four years!"

Fredrica Lipsett

"I’ve felt encouraged not only to grow academically, but also to build meaningful relationships and become more involved in a space where students truly care for one another. That combination of connection, mentorship, and belonging is what makes APUG feel like home."  

Soniya Malpani

"What makes APUG feel like home to me is the strong sense of community, where professors and peers genuinely support one another both academically and personally. The shared passion for psychology and the welcoming, inclusive environment make it a place where I feel understood and connected." 

Giselle Cardoso

"The people! Everyone I’ve met through the program has been incredibly kindhearted and supportive. It’s clear they genuinely want the best for you and are committed to helping you succeed." 

Paulina Chin-Wong

"APUG feels like home because of the community here. Whether it’s hanging out with friends, going to events, or just meeting people who are genuinely supportive, it’s the people that make this place really special."  

Bella Cai

"Everyone's journey moves at a different pace. The beginning of freshman year for me was terrifying because I was faced with a new environment, new people, new classes, and an entirely new lifestyle. I found that when I did not immediately have my life figured out, it felt like I never would, and that I was immediately behind. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to focus on your own path, celebrate your successes, and not compare your journey to those around you." 

Sola Minotti

"Don't let Rate My Professor scare you away from taking a class. Take full advantage of the time period before the Drop/Add deadline to get a feel for the professor's style and workload before making any decisions."  

Kristy Xie

"Don't just stay in NYU's little East Village bubble! Explore the city; it has so much to offer."

Giselle Cardoso

"Be spontaneous and open to trying everything! I know it can feel daunting as a first-year student, but remember this new chapter in your life is supposed to be a positive experience. Try to be flexible and open-minded to opportunities, so you can allow yourself to enjoy them to the fullest!"

Fredrica Lipsett

"Make sure to explore NYC both alone and with friends; the city has so much to offer, and you'll discover different things depending on who you're with. If something catches your interest, go for it—whether it’s a new class, club, or event. And take advantage of the opportunities that both NYU and the city have to offer. There are so many opportunities around you, so try your best to make the most of them."

Paulina Chin-Wong

"My advice for students who are leaving home for the first time is to validate those feelings but also try to put yourself out there, join as many events/clubs that align with your interests, and keeping yourself busy to create a life of your own here."  

Annie Chang

"Don’t be afraid to ask questions and reach out for help, it’s totally normal to feel a bit lost at first. Also, take time to explore your interests and meet new people, the connections you make here really make a difference."

Bella Cai

"My advice for new students would be to use all the resources available to you and not be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s the ULC, the library, advisors, or peer mentors, those spaces and people are there to support you, and they can make a big difference when college starts to feel overwhelming. As someone who also had to adjust to a completely new environment, I know how helpful it is to have guidance and support during that transition."

Soniya Malpani

"Free fitness classes! I did not utilize Paulson's free dance classes until the very last weeks of my First Year and I wish that I had been able to participate earlier. Whether it is dance, cycling, or weight lifting, NYU's free fitness opportunities are a great way to meet new people and get your body moving with your peers! " 

Sola Minotti

"The Writing Center or University Learning Center are must-visits in your First Year, especially for writing-heavy courses or any courses that feel challenging and fast-paced. It's always worth getting a fresh set of eyes on your work before you submit!"

Kristy Xie

"Take advantage of office hours with professors to not only get extra help but also get to know the professor and their research to get more involved."

Annie Chang

"The Wasserman Center, they give great career advice and can help you explore internships, even if you’re still figuring out what you want to do. It’s never too early to start looking!"

Bella Cai

"I wish I had utilized the University Learning Center (ULC) sooner in my college career. It gave me access to academic support in a way that felt approachable and practical, and it helped me build confidence by showing me that asking for help early can make a big difference."

Soniya Malpani