Welcome, Class of 2030!
Freshman Guide
You Made It!
Getting into BYU-Idaho is an accomplishment. Your first semester will be challenging, exciting, and transformative. The adjustment period is real - expect weeks 3-6 to be the hardest as the novelty wears off.
But here's the truth: students who get involved early, make friends quickly, and use campus resources thrive here. This guide will show you how.
First Semester Success Tips
Attend EVERYTHING the first two weeks
Orientation events, ward activities, club fairs - say yes to it all. This is when lifelong friendships form.
Start with 12-14 credits
Don't overload your first semester while adjusting to college life. You can increase later.
Get involved in your ward immediately
Your ward is your built-in friend group. Attend FHE, activities, and Sunday meetings from day one.
Meet with your academic advisor
They help map your degree path and catch issues early. Schedule a meeting first week.
Learn campus before classes start
Walk to every classroom, locate the library, testing center, and find indoor shortcuts for winter.
Understanding the Track System
BYU-Idaho operates year-round. You attend 2 of 3 semesters each year on your assigned track.
Track 1
Fall + Winter
Off: Spring (Apr-Jul)
Most popular trackTrack 2
Winter + Spring
Off: Fall (Sep-Dec)
Summer in RexburgTrack 3
Fall + Spring
Off: Winter (Jan-Apr)
Skip the coldest monthsFree Campus Resources
These are included in your tuition - use them!
Academic Support Center
Free tutoring for most subjects
Writing Center
Help with papers, essays, and writing assignments
Math Lab
Drop-in math tutoring
Testing Center
Where you take most exams
McKay Library
Study spaces, computers, research help
Counseling Center
Free mental health support
Career Services
Resume help, job search, internships
Hart Building
Free gym, pool, fitness classes
What to Pack
Bedroom
- •Twin XL sheets and bedding
- •Pillows and comforter
- •Desk lamp
- •Hangers and storage bins
Bathroom
- •Toiletries
- •Towels (2-3)
- •Shower caddy
- •Medications
Tech
- •Laptop and charger
- •Phone charger
- •Headphones
- •Power strip
Winter Gear
- •Heavy winter coat
- •Waterproof boots
- •Gloves and hat
- •Thermal layers
Arriving in Winter? Buy Gear Before You Come
If arriving for Winter semester, Rexburg will be COLD (often below 0°F from day one). Local options are limited once you arrive. Order the essentials before your trip.
Your First Semester Timeline
Before Arrival
- Complete immunizations
- Secure housing
- Register for classes
- Apply for financial aid
- Buy winter gear
Week 1
- Move in and attend orientation
- Get your I-Card
- Walk to classrooms
- Meet roommates
- Attend ward activities
Month 1
- Establish study routine
- Join 1-2 clubs
- Find your study spots
- Form study groups
- Meet with advisor
Mid-Semester
- Check grades in I-Learn
- Register for next semester
- Use tutoring if needed
- Stay connected socially
Finals
- Book study rooms early
- Review all semester
- Get enough sleep
- Secure next semester housing
Common Freshman Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Skipping orientation events
Fix: These are where you meet people and learn crucial info. Attend everything.
Waiting too long to make friends
Fix: Be proactive the first two weeks. Everyone is looking for friends.
Overloading your first semester
Fix: Start with 12-14 credits. Add more once you know your limits.
Not using free tutoring
Fix: Academic Support Center and Writing Center are free and excellent.
Procrastinating on assignments
Fix: Start early. BYU-I's condensed semesters move fast.
Isolating in your apartment
Fix: Force yourself out. Join clubs, go to activities, study in the library.
Not preparing for winter
Fix: Invest in a quality winter coat and boots BEFORE it gets cold.
Making Friends at BYU-Idaho
The #1 key to a great college experience is having good friends. Here's how to find them:
Best Ways to Meet People
- •Your Ward - Attend FHE, activities, and Sunday meetings
- •Roommates - Make an effort to do things together
- •Classes - Talk to people before/after class
- •Clubs - Join 1-2 that interest you
- •Intramural Sports - Great way to stay active and social
Pro Tips
- ✓Be the one to invite people to do things
- ✓Say yes to invitations, even awkward ones
- ✓Leave your apartment door open while home
- ✓Study in public spaces instead of your room
- ✓Give it 3-4 weeks before judging your experience
Dealing with Homesickness
Homesickness is completely normal. Most students feel it, especially weeks 3-6 when the novelty wears off.
What Helps:
- • Limit calls home to 1-2x per week
- • Stay busy with activities
- • Create new routines
- • Make one good friend
- • Exercise regularly
When to Get Help:
- • Persistent sadness 2+ weeks
- • Can't focus on schoolwork
- • Sleeping too much or too little
- • Isolating completely
Counseling Center: (208) 496-9370