CofC Podcast: Back-to-School Guide for Incoming Students
On this episode of the "Speaking of ... College of Charleston" podcast, students share their funniest dorm stories, biggest first-year challenges and best advice for incoming students.

On this episode of the Speaking of … College of Charleston podcast, we revisiting a popular and timely episode from 2022 with three College of Charleston students, Jalen Newell, Bella Pack ’24 and Lauren Pinto ’23, about successfully managing the first few weeks and months of college.
Their advice is timeless and will benefit new students who are starting classes, finding their way around campus and making new friends. From finding parking to avoiding dorm-kitchen disasters (yes, you do add water to microwaveable mac and cheese), the trio offers heartfelt insights drawn from their own college journeys. They discuss the importance of getting involved in clubs, exploring Charleston’s vibrant culture and embracing academic resources like the Center for Student Learning. The episode also touches on deeper themes like homesickness, mental health and the value of taking risks and staying open to change, whether it’s switching majors or discovering unexpected passions.
With humor, honesty and encouragement, Newell, Pack and Pinto remind new students that college is not just about academics, but about growth, connection and finding your place.