Category Archives: Advice

Advice, Lifestyle / Hall Life

Know Your Villages: Your Guide to Feeling at Home Before Move-In Day

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Moving into a residence hall is one of the most exciting parts of starting a new semester. Your residence hall will be more than just a place to sleep it will be your home base for studying, relaxing, meeting new friends, and creating memories throughout the year.

Before you arrive on campus, take some time to get to know your residence hall and what it has to offer.

What Makes Your Residence Hall Unique?

Every residence hall has its own personality. Some buildings are known for their close-knit communities, while others offer unique amenities, learning communities, or convenient locations near academic buildings and campus resources.

Take a few minutes to explore your residence hall online and learn about:

  • Building amenities
  • Common spaces
  • Laundry facilities
  • Study lounges
  • Kitchen areas
  • Mail and package services
  • Dining options

The more familiar you are with your building, the more confident you’ll feel on move-in day.

Take our virtual tour https://www.millersville.edu/housing/on-campus-housing-options/

Learn the Layout

One of the easiest ways to reduce first-day stress is to familiarize yourself with your residence hall’s layout.

Knowing where key spaces are located can help you settle in quickly and navigate the building with ease.

Understand Your Room Setup

Residence hall rooms are typically furnished, but layouts may vary.

Before packing, find out:

  • Room dimensions
  • Furniture provided
  • Storage space available
  • Available electrical outlets

This information can help you avoid overpacking and make smarter purchasing decisions.

Meet the People Who Support You

Your residence hall is staffed by professionals and student leaders who are there to help you succeed.

You may encounter:

  • Desk Attendants (DAs)
  • Resident Assistants (RAs)
  • Graduate Assistants (GAs)
  • Residence Hall Directors (RADs)
  • Facilities and maintenance staff

These individuals are valuable resources and can answer questions, connect you with campus services, and help you navigate college life.

Get Ready to Build Community

One of the biggest benefits of living on campus is the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and experiences.

Residence halls often host:

  • Welcome events
  • Building Programs
  • Floor Programs
  • Social Programs
  • Educational programs
  • Community meetings
  • Wellness initiatives

Attending even a few events can help you make connections and feel more at home. Signs are always up in the halls.

Make It Your Home

Once you move in, personalize your space with items that bring you comfort and familiarity.

Consider bringing:

  • Family photos
  • Favorite blankets or pillows
  • Small decorations
  • Meaningful keepsakes
  • School spirit items

A few personal touches can make a new space feel like home much faster.

Your residence hall is more than just a building, it’s where you’ll study for exams, celebrate accomplishments, make new friends, and grow throughout the year. Taking time to learn about your dorm before move-in day can help ease nerves and build excitement for the semester ahead.

We can’t wait to welcome you this fall! 🏠🎓

 

Academics, Advice, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle / Hall Life, New / Prospective Students, Resources

First-Year College Survival Guide: 9 Things Every Freshman Needs to Know 🎒

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Starting college is exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and honestly, kind of chaotic at first. One minute you are buying room décor and matching bedding, and the next you are trying to figure out where your 8:00 a.m. class is while surviving on iced coffee and three hours of sleep.

The good news? Every student starts somewhere and you do not need to have everything figured out on day one.

Here is your unofficial (but very necessary) first-year survival guide to help you navigate campus life like a pro.

1. Your Planner Is About to Become Your Best Friend 📅

College moves fast. Between classes, assignments, club meetings, work schedules, and social events, it is easy to lose track of things.

Whether you use:

  • Google Calendar
  • A physical planner
  • Reminder apps
  • Sticky notes everywhere

Find a system that works for you early.

“Future You” will be very grateful when deadlines start stacking up.

2. Go to Class — Yes, Even the Early Ones 😭

Nobody wants to hear this, but attendance really does matter.

Skipping “just one class” can quickly turn into:

  • Missing important announcements
  • Falling behind
  • Confusing yourself before exams
  • Emailing classmates asking “Did I miss anything?” (You definitely did!)

Showing up consistently makes college life way easier.

3. Your Room Does Not Have to Look Like Pinterest ✨

Social media can make it seem like everyone has a perfectly decorated room with LED clouds and aesthetic color coordination.

Reality check:
Most students are just trying to keep their laundry off the floor.

Your room only needs to be:

  • Comfortable
  • Functional
  • A space where you can recharge

Start simple. Your space will come together over time, just try to keep it organized as much as possible, because an organized space makes it easier to think.

4. Introduce Yourself — Everyone Feels Awkward at First 👋

One of the biggest college myths is that everyone instantly finds their best friends during move-in weekend.

Truth? Most people are nervous too.

Say hi to:

  • Your roommate
  • People on your floor
  • Someone sitting next to you in class
  • Students at campus events

A simple “What’s your major?” can turn into a real friendship.

5. Learn Basic Life Skills ASAP 🧺

College comes with responsibilities nobody warns you about enough:

  • Doing laundry
  • Cleaning your room & suite bathroom
  • Budgeting money
  • Remembering to eat actual meals
  • Not spending all your dining dollars in two weeks

Small habits make a huge difference. Learn these basic skills so you can survive.

Bonus tip: Set alarms for EVERYTHING.

6. Homesickness Is Normal ❤️

Even if you were counting down the days to move in, homesickness can still happen.

You might miss:

  • Family
  • Friends
  • Home-cooked food
  • Your own bed
  • Familiar routines

Adjustment takes time. Be patient with yourself while building your new routine and community.

And remember asking for support is completely okay, Millersville University has tons of resources for you.

7. Get Involved — Even If You Feel Nervous 🎉

Campus events are one of the easiest ways to:

  • Meet people
  • Learn about resources
  • Discover organizations
  • Feel connected

Try at least one thing outside your comfort zone this semester.

You never know what opportunity, friendship, or experience could come from it.

8. Rest Is Productive Too 😴

College culture sometimes makes people feel like they need to be busy 24/7.

You do not.

Getting enough sleep, taking breaks, and protecting your mental health are important parts of student success.

Burnout is real. Balance matters.

9. It Is Okay Not to Have Everything Figured Out Yet 🌱

Some students arrive on campus with a five-year plan.

Others change majors three times and still succeed.

Growth happens during college. You are learning academically, socially, and personally all at once.

Give yourself room to learn as you go.

Finally…

Your first year will probably include:

  • Amazing memories
  • Awkward moments
  • Unexpected challenges
  • Late-night laughs
  • Late-night tears
  • New friendships
  • A lot of personal growth

You do not have to be perfect to succeed here.

Take things one day at a time, stay open to new experiences, and remember, everyone is figuring it out together.

We look forward to meeting you all on campus. You’ve got this. 🎓

If you have any additional questions, comments, or concerns regarding the information above, please reach out to our office through email at housing@millersville.edu. 

Advice, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle / Hall Life, Lists

Your Summer Move-In Countdown: How to Prepare for August Move-In Stress-Free

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residence hall

August move-in season will be here before you know it, which means it is officially time to start preparing for campus life again. Whether you are a returning resident who already knows the move-in routine or a new student getting ready for your first college experience, a little preparation now can make move-in day much smoother later.

Because trust us, Future You will appreciate not panic-packing the night before move-in.

Here is your ultimate summer move-in countdown guide to help you get ready stress-free.

1. Do Not Wait Until August to Start Packing

This is your sign to stop saying “I’ll do it later.”

Start small:

  • Create a packing checklist (Find PDF here!!!)
  • Organize items by category
  • Decide what you actually used last year
  • Separate essentials from “just in case” items

Returning students already know how quickly residence hall rooms fill up. New students? You do not need to bring your entire bedroom from home.

The goal is smart packing, not overpacking.

2. Check Your Housing Email Regularly

Housing emails are basically your summer survival guide.

Important updates often include:

  • Move-in dates and times
  • Parking instructions
  • Building information
  • Roommate details
  • Policy reminders
  • Last-minute announcements

Ignoring housing emails all summer is a guaranteed way to feel confused during move-in weekend.

Save yourself the stress and check regularly.

3. Returning Students: Do a residence hall Room Reality Check

Be honest with yourself:
Did you actually use that extra storage cart?
Do you need five throw blankets?
Are you really bringing the same random decorations again?

Returning residents have the advantage of experience. Use it.

Think about:

  • What worked well last year
  • What made your space cluttered
  • What you wish you brought sooner
  • What can stay home this time

Your future self and your roommates — will thank you.

4. New Students: It Is Okay to Feel Nervous

Starting college comes with a lot of emotions:

  • Excitement
  • Anxiety
  • Homesickness
  • Curiosity
  • Fear of the unknown

That is completely normal.

Every returning student was once in your position too. Nobody has college fully figured out during the first week.

Give yourself time to adjust and remember that orientation, housing staff, and campus resources are there to support you.

5. Coordinate with Your Roommate Early

One microwave. One mini fridge. Probably not three.

Before move-in, connect with your roommate to discuss:

  • Shared items
  • Room preferences
  • Cleaning expectations
  • Communication styles

Even a short conversation beforehand can help avoid awkward move-in surprises later.

6. Practice Basic Life Skills This Summer

College comes with responsibilities beyond academics.

If possible, spend the summer practicing:

  • Laundry
  • Budgeting
  • Cleaning routines
  • Time management
  • Cooking simple meals

Yes, knowing how to separate lights and darks is now an important life skill.

7. Start Thinking About Your Routine

The transition back to school can feel overwhelming if your summer sleep schedule is “going to bed at 3 a.m.”

A few weeks before move-in:

  • Adjust your sleep schedule gradually
  • Start organizing your daily habits
  • Think about academic and personal goals for the semester

A smoother routine makes the transition easier.

8. Remember That Move-In Day Is Busy for Everyone

Move-in day energy is:

  • Organized chaos
  • Lots of carts
  • Families everywhere
  • Music playing
  • People sweating in the hallway
  • Staff trying to help everyone at once

Be patient with yourself and others.

Things may not go perfectly, and that is okay.

Final Thoughts

Whether this is your first move-in or your fourth, every semester brings new experiences, opportunities, and memories.

Take advantage of the summer to prepare early, stay organized, and give yourself space to transition into campus life.

August will be here soon — and we cannot wait to welcome you back home to campus. 🎓✨

Please take notice that toilet paper and cleaning products are not included or supplied by the university. These items are strictly the resident’s responsibility to provide.

If you have any additional questions, comments, or concerns regarding the information above, please reach out to our office through email at housing@millersville.edu. 

Advice, Health & Wellness

Safe and Spooky: Halloween Tips for College Students

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Halloween is a beloved time of year for college students, filled with costumes, parties, and plenty of treats. However, amid the fun and festivities, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Remember, at Millersville, we look out for each other; it is part of our culture. Whether you’re planning to attend a themed party or just hang out with friends, here are some essential Halloween safety tips to ensure your celebration at Millersville University is both safe and spooky!

1. Plan Your Costumes Wisely (and Respectfully)

When choosing a costume, consider practicality and safety. Ensure that your outfit is comfortable and allows for easy movement, especially if you’ll be walking around campus or attending parties. Avoid costumes that obstruct your vision or make it difficult to walk, such as oversized accessories or long capes. If you plan to wear a mask, consider opting for one with ample visibility to help you navigate safely.

Additionally, it’s essential to be respectful when selecting your costume. Avoid outfits that appropriate or stereotype cultures, as this can be offensive and disrespectful to others. Instead, consider costumes that celebrate creativity and fun without perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Engage with your friends about their costume choices and encourage an open dialogue about cultural sensitivity. This way, you can enjoy Halloween while fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone on campus. Halloween can be equally EPPIIC and fun!

2. Stay Visible and Safe While Walking

As the days get shorter, visibility becomes a concern, especially if you’re walking after dark. Wear bright colors or reflective accessories to ensure you’re seen by others. Consider carrying a flashlight or using your phone’s flashlight feature when walking between buildings or to off-campus locations. Always stick to well-lit pathways, and don’t hesitate to use MUPD’s Police Escort Service or the SafeWalk option in the LiveSafe app if you feel uneasy about your surroundings. Be sure to have the LiveSafe app on your phone. Students can follow the MU Police Instagram account for Uber vouchers on Halloween.

3. Celebrate Responsibly

Halloween often comes with its share of parties and gatherings, but it’s important to drink responsibly if you choose to consume alcohol. Set a limit for yourself before you start partying and stick to it. Keep track of your drinks, and never leave your beverage unattended. If you’re going out with friends, establish a buddy system to ensure everyone gets home safely. Designate a sober friend to be your driver or use rideshare services if needed.

4. Know Your Limits

Halloween can be a busy night with numerous events happening on campus and in the surrounding areas. While it’s tempting to try to attend every party, listen to your body and know your limits. Make sure to get enough rest, stay hydrated, and take breaks when necessary. It’s better to enjoy a few events fully than to exhaust yourself trying to do it all.

5. Keep Your Living Space Secure

If you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, be mindful of security. Lock your doors and windows, and ensure that any guests you invite are someone you trust. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and consider using a designated area for coats and bags. After the party, do a quick check to ensure nothing is left behind that might attract unwanted attention.

6. Be Mindful of Your Social Media Presence

In today’s digital age, sharing your Halloween adventures on social media is common. However, be cautious about what you post, especially regarding location tags and personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive details about your whereabouts, particularly if you’re attending parties at unfamiliar locations. Maintain privacy settings on your profiles and be mindful of the content you’re sharing.

7. Have Fun, But Stay Aware

Finally, the most important tip for Halloween is to have fun! Embrace the spirit of the holiday, enjoy the costumes, and indulge in all the treats. However, always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation.

No one has to do everything, but everyone has to do something. Halloween is a great opportunity to engage in both reactive and proactive “Green Dots” to ensure our campus remains a safe space that does not tolerate violence. A Green Dot is a behavior, choice, or action that promotes safety for everyone. The goal of the Green Dot program is to implement a bystander intervention strategy that prevents and reduces power-based personal violence. This includes sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

What is your Green Dot? Will you choose to Direct, Delegate, or Distract? Make a plan before you go out. Think through some scenarios you might encounter and how you will handle them.

Halloween is a time for celebration, creativity, and community. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your Halloween at Millersville University is not only enjoyable but also secure. So, put on your best costume, gather your friends, and get ready for a fun and safe Halloween!

A special “Halloween thanks!” to MUPD Chief Anders, Deputy Chief Bauman, and CHEP Director Margo Thowart for contributing to this post! 

Academics, Advice, Lifestyle / Hall Life

How to Stay Focused on Your Goals Mid-Semester at Millersville University

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It is official: we have now reached the halfway point in the semester. Unfortunately, this is when students tend to feel overwhelmed or lose focus. However, staying motivated is key to finishing strong. Below are several strategies to help you stay on track and maintain your momentum through the second half of the semester:

1. Reevaluate and Set New Goals

  • Assess Your Progress: Take time to reflect on the goals you set at the beginning of the semester. What have you accomplished so far, and what needs more attention?
  • Break Down Large Goals: If your original goals seem daunting, break them into smaller, manageable tasks. Achieving these smaller milestones will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue.
  • Set SMART Goals: Make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). This ensures clarity and provides a clear roadmap to success.

2. Create or Refresh Your Study Plan

  • Time Block Your Schedule: Organize your remaining weeks by assigning dedicated time for studying, assignments, and personal activities. Sticking to a schedule helps reduce procrastination.
  • Prioritize Tasks by Deadline and Importance: Focus first on upcoming deadlines or major projects, but also make sure to carve out time for ongoing study and review sessions.
  • Use a Planner or Digital Tools: Apps like Google Calendar, Trello, or Notion can help you track your progress and maintain accountability. Regularly check your planner and adjust it as needed to stay organized.

3. Utilize University Housing Resources

  • Access Study Spaces: Take advantage of quiet areas or common study rooms in the residence halls’ common areas. A change of scenery from your room can boost productivity.
  • Attend Stress-Relief Activities: Mid-semester stress is common, and MU offers offers many wellness programs and other events designed to help students unwind. Balance between study and relaxation is essential for maintaining motivation.

4. Build a Support System

  • Form Study Partnerships: Reach out to roommates or classmates to form study groups. Discussing material with others can improve understanding and keep you engaged.
  • Stay Connected with Mentors or Advisors: If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, schedule a check-in with a professor, academic advisor, or your resident assistant (RA). They can offer guidance, help refocus your efforts, and provide useful resources.
  • Communicate with Roommates: Set clear boundaries with roommates when it comes to study time, and try to minimize distractions in shared living spaces.

5. Practice Self-Care

  • Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition: A well-rested and nourished body is more focused and productive. Avoid all-night cramming sessions by planning study blocks that allow for adequate sleep.
  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress and reset your mind. Use on-campus facilities or get outdoors for a quick walk or workout.
  • Incorporate Breaks: Use the Pomodoro Technique (work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break) to keep yourself refreshed and prevent burnout.

6. Focus on the Big Picture

  • Visualize Success: Remind yourself of the long-term benefits of your hard work, such as passing your exams, achieving high grades, or preparing for future career opportunities.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Reward yourself for completing tasks, whether it’s a small treat, taking time for a favorite hobby, or enjoying a night off after a productive day.

7. Stay Positive and Flexible

  • Accept Setbacks: It’s normal to face challenges, but don’t let them derail your progress. Adjust your goals or plans as needed without losing sight of the end goal.
  • Practice a Growth Mindset: Embrace the idea that challenges are opportunities to learn and grow, rather than obstacles to success. A positive attitude will keep you motivated during tough times.
You can finish all of your classes strong! You’ve already put in so much effort. With just a bit more focus and determination, you can end this semester on a high note. The second half of the semester is your opportunity to build on your progress, improve where needed, and achieve the goals you set out to accomplish. Keep up the good work, stay focused, and remember that every step forward brings you closer to success. You’ve got this!
Advice, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle / Hall Life

6 Tips for Enhancing Your Mental Health

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Mental health is something that is brought to students’ attention. Realizing that you need to take a break, relax, and do more of what makes you happy and more relaxed is important. Here is a list of things that can help you focus more on your mental health. 

Plant a garden:
Planting flowers or fruits and vegetables at home is a great way to dive into the spring vibes. Flowers are always very colorful and can bring life to your yard or your room. If you go home, you could spend time with friends and family planting flowers. 

Read books:
Finding good books to read, laying outside, and relaxing is something that is so easy, but yet overlooked too often. You could also swap books with friends. For example, each person buys a book and then, after reading, they swap it so they can enjoy the same book. 

Go to your closest coffee shop:
Finding a coffee shop that is close to you that you can visit is a convenient way to destress. Simply reading, spending time with friends, or just grabbing coffee by yourself is something that is very therapeutic and simple. The environment in coffee shops is something that many college students enjoy. 

Watch movies:
Going on streaming platforms, like Netflix or Hulu for example, can be a great inexpensive night with friends and family. You can find a lot of new movies that were recently released, such as, comedies, romance, horror, documentaries, and other genres. 

Exercising:
Going to your local gym or even taking a walk outside of your neighborhood is a healthy way to get your mind off of stress. For example, walking a dog, stretching beforehand, listening to music, and putting your phone on “do not disturb” are great ways to establish an exercise routine. 

Puzzles:
Assembling jigsaw puzzles is really beneficial for your brain and lets you relax in peace and quiet. This activity also lets you put down your phone for awhile. It is easy to find inexpensive puzzles at Walmart, Target and Amazon. Also, you can give a puzzle to a friend once you have completed it. 

Once again,  do not forget to take breaks during the remainder of the semester. This is a great way to focus on your mental health and overall wellness. What is something you do to relax and enhance your own mental health? Please leave a comment below or reply to our accompanying Instagram post!

Advice, Events / Programs, Resources

Networking In College

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As we approach the end of the semester, topics such as networking start to cross our mind. Whether we are seniors preparing for the real world or freshmen bunkering down for the next few years, this topic can still be just as important to us both. Networking is a crucial part of a college student’s career development. So, here are some tips on how to network effectively as a college student.

Attend career fairs: Most colleges organize career fairs where you can meet with employers from various industries. Attend these events to learn about career opportunities and to connect with potential employers. Millersville has a career and internship fair each semester that is extremely helpful for connecting with potential employers.

Join student organizations: Joining student organizations related to your field of interest can help you meet other students who share your passion and can also provide opportunities for networking with alumni and industry professionals. It may not seem like the obvious answer, but sometimes the fun you have outside the classroom can also assist in helping you network.

Connect with alumni: Your college’s alumni network can be an excellent resource for networking. Reach out to alumni who are working in your desired field and ask for advice or mentorship. It is especially helpful if these alumni are working at your desired destination for employment.

Utilize social media: LinkedIn is a valuable tool for networking, as it allows you to connect with professionals in your field and join industry groups. Follow leaders and companies in your field on Twitter and other social media platforms to stay up-to-date on industry news and trends.

Attend workshops and events: Attend workshops and events related to your field to expand your knowledge and network with professionals in your industry. Some universities and clubs on campus offer these, or just research events close to where you live.

Informational interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field and ask for an informational interview. This can be a valuable opportunity to learn about their career path and gain advice on how to break into the industry. It is also great practice for the interview process that you will experience when searching for a job.

Remember that networking is about building relationships, so focus on building genuine connections with the people you meet. Keep in touch with your contacts and follow up with them periodically to maintain the relationship. Networking reflects the effort you put into it. Happy Spring! Only one month to go Marauders.

__________________________________________________________________________ 

Gabrielle Krick is a senior Business Administration major with a concentration in Management and minor in Marketing at Millersville University. Her interests include human resources, social media marketing, and content marketing. When she graduates in May 2023, Gabby hopes to work for a large company’s human resources department, specifically representing minorities and the LGBTQ community. She hopes to either stay in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area or move somewhere near Rehoboth, Delaware.  

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Advice, Health & Wellness

Overcoming Distractions: Tips for Staying Productive at Home

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Working from home, or even taking classes online, has become the new norm since 2020. While many of us have adapted to this vast change, there still is a lot to learn about overcoming distractions and staying productive at home. Keep reading for my tips and tricks on how to stay motivated while working from home.

Create a designated workspace: Set up a dedicated workspace that is comfortable and free from distractions. This will help you maintain focus and productivity. While it can be tempting to convert your bed to a desk during the work day, this is a prime example of how a nap could sneak its way into a meeting.

Stick to a routine: Try to maintain a regular schedule, including regular working hours, breaks, and mealtimes. This will help you stay on track and avoid burnout. It is easy to take the leniency of being at home all day as opportunity to complete tasks at different times each day. Stick to a schedule though, and I promise your productivity will not falter.

Dress for success: While you do not need to dress as formally as you would for an office job, it can help to get dressed and groomed each day to signal to yourself that it is time to work. Staying in your pajamas is tempting, but to your mind you are not in work mode until you are changed and groomed.

Minimize distractions: Turn off your phone notifications, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, and let family members know when you are working so they don’t interrupt you. Without the watchful eye of leaders around, it can be tempting to take a quick TV break, but this makes it that much harder to get back on track with your work day.

Take breaks: It is important to take regular breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout and maintain focus. Get up and stretch, take a walk outside, or do some other form of physical activity to help refresh your mind. When you would normally take a bathroom break or converse with a coworker at the office, now take that time to be with yourself, away from work.

Communicate with your team: Make sure you stay in touch with your colleagues through email, chat, or video conferencing tools. This will help you stay connected and feel less isolated. This will also hold you accountable for completing tasks throughout the day.

Set boundaries: It can be easy to blur the line between work and personal time when you’re working from home. Set clear boundaries around when you are working and when you are off the clock to help maintain a healthy work-life balance. It is also acceptable to voice these boundaries to those you live with and those you work with.

Practice self-care: Working from home can be isolating, so it is important to take care of your mental health. Make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you relax, such as reading, listening to music, or taking a bath. I would especially recommend planning time to get out of your house, so you are not confined to the same four walls for days on end.

Working from home, or taking classes online, is not for everyone. It is important to acknowledge that. While these tips and tricks should help with keeping distractions at bay while working from home, there is no guarantee this is the lifestyle for you. Always take that into account and advocate for yourself and your personal needs.

__________________________________________________________________________ 

Gabrielle Krick is a senior Business Administration major with a concentration in Management and minor in Marketing at Millersville University. Her interests include human resources, social media marketing, and content marketing. When she graduates in May 2023, Gabby hopes to work for a large company’s human resources department, specifically representing minorities and the LGBTQ community. She hopes to either stay in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area or move somewhere near Rehoboth, Delaware.  

Subscribe to our blog to receive email notifications whenever we make a new post! 

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Advice

Email Etiquette 101: Best Practices for Writing Professional Emails

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Emails are often your first opportunity at an effective first impression. Whether it is an advisor or a potential supervisor, it is always important to set an appropriate example of yourself through your emails. Continue reading to get my tips and tricks on how to write a professional email.

Start with a clear subject line: Your subject line should be concise and accurately convey the content of the email. Often, the subject line is neglected in emails. By creating a subject line, you are clearly deciphering what your email is about to the recipient.

Address the recipient properly: Use a formal greeting, such as “Dear [Name]” or “Hello [Title and Name].” Besides your subject line, this is the first thing your recipient is reading. Addressing them correctly and professionally will ensure you present yourself as a respectable person.

Keep it brief and to the point: Professional emails should be concise and focused. Get to the point quickly, and avoid rambling or including irrelevant details. Often, professional advisors and supervisors have countless emails in their inbox from day to day. The last thing they want to do is waste time on reading your email with unneeded information in it.

Use proper grammar and spelling: Double-check your email for any grammatical errors or misspelled words. This will help you come across as more professional and competent. There is nothing more discouraging then emailing with someone who clearly did not proofread their writing.

Be courteous and respectful: Always be polite and respectful when writing professional emails. This includes using appropriate language, avoiding slang or informal expressions, and using a professional tone.

Provide context and clarity: Make sure to provide enough context so the recipient can understand the purpose of the email. Use clear and concise language, and avoid using jargon or technical terms that the recipient may not be familiar with. It is important to get your point across with the correct context without needing to reply on multiple emails.

Use a clear call to action: If you need the recipient to take action, make sure to clearly communicate what you need from them and when you need it by. Again, many supervisors and advisors are responding to countless emails in a day. Clearly requesting what you need from the recipient is extremely important.

Sign off appropriately: Use a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” and include your name and contact information. This will ensure your recipient knows exactly who they are communicating with and how to reach you outside of your email.

Proofread before sending: Always proofread your email before hitting send. This will help you catch any mistakes or errors and ensure that your email is professional and effective. From grammar to dates, you want to make sure every detail of your email is specific and correct.

Remember, the way you communicate in professional emails can have a large impact on your reputation and your success in your career. By following these tips, you can ensure that your emails are professional, effective, and help you achieve your goals.

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Gabrielle Krick is a senior Business Administration major with a concentration in Management and minor in Marketing at Millersville University. Her interests include human resources, social media marketing, and content marketing. When she graduates in May 2023, Gabby hopes to work for a large company’s human resources department, specifically representing minorities and the LGBTQ community. She hopes to either stay in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area or move somewhere near Rehoboth, Delaware.  

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Academics, Advice, Lists

10 Motivational Quotes To Get You Through the Rest Of the Semester

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It is that time of the semester again, where the post Spring Break blues kick in. While the end of the semester seems so close, impending assignment due dates and school obligations are all but giving us comfort. As a senior, trust me, I get it. So, here are 10 quotes to help get you through the rest of the semester.

  1. “Education is not the learning of many facts, but the training of the mind to think.” – Albert Einstein
  2. “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” – Winston Churchill
  3. “You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them.” – Michael Jordan
  4. “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss
  5. “A little progress each day adds up to big results.” – Satya Nani
  6. “It never gets easier. You just get better.” – Jordan Hoechlin
  7. “Whatever you are, be a good one.” – Abraham Lincoln
  8. “Just remember, you can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets.” – Arnold Schwarzenegger
  9. “Be so good they can’t ignore you.” – Steve Martin
  10. “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day-in and day-out.” – Robert Collier

While these quotes will not complete your assignments for you, I hope they tell you what you have been needing to hear. We are a short five weeks away from the end of the semester. Keep going Marauders.

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Gabrielle Krick is a senior Business Administration major with a concentration in Management and minor in Marketing at Millersville University. Her interests include human resources, social media marketing, and content marketing. When she graduates in May 2023, Gabby hopes to work for a large company’s human resources department, specifically representing minorities and the LGBTQ community. She hopes to either stay in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area or move somewhere near Rehoboth, Delaware.  

Subscribe to our blog to receive email notifications whenever we make a new post! 

Follow us on social media: 

Twitter: @villehousing. Twitter QR Code: 

Instagram: @villehousing. Instagram Nametag: