Laundry bags overstuffed with clothes and boxes of unopened furniture decorate the campus. While the incoming freshmen struggle to carry their belongings to their new dorm rooms, parents and friends give their last hugs and prepare to say their goodbyes.

Aug. 19 was move-in day for all incoming freshmen living in the dorm halls at Mary Park and Mary Ward.

"Oh my God, the bathrooms are so gross," said freshman Michaela Booker, who moved from Union City. "They smell disgusting, and my bed at home is like three times bigger than this twin I have now."

Moving away from home and into a new city is a major transition for incoming freshmen.
For first-year students, adapting to a different atmosphere and making new friends make experiencing the college life more challenging.

"It's not a nightmare, yet, but I don't know if we're completely compatible," said Erin Gibb, a theatre arts major from San Diego, about her new roommate. "I like her enough to be able to get along, so it's not that bad."

SF State organizes student activities every week, like Karaoke or Movie Night where freshmen are able to socialize with fellow classmates and familiarize themselves with the campus. Tutoring sessions are also organized so that each student feels welcomed and eager to learn.

"The one thing I'm really nervous about is my class schedule," Gibb admitted. "I know some people from back home, but I'm curious to see how difficult my classes will be."

Surviving the first year of college can be nerve-racking for many freshmen; with frightening professors and upperclassmen, but the outcome is an accomplishing feeling and the ultimate experience.

"I'm looking forward to a new school year. Everyone at SF State seems friendly, so hopefully it turns out to be a good one," Booker said.