“Rocky Top” played from your welcome card from the University of Tennessee. Your family and friends cheered you on for taking a big step into adulthood, and now an incredible year of firsts awaits you.
Welcome to Rocky Top! Whether you’re feeling a little nervous or absolutely thrilled (or both!), this is the beginning of something exciting. College is full of new experiences—from small daily changes to major personal growth. And here at UT, you’ll have support, guidance, and community every step of the way.
Your First College Roommate
Sharing a room—possibly for the first time—can be a big adjustment. Maybe you’re used to having your space, or maybe you’ve always shared with a sibling. Either way, learning to live with someone new is part of the adventure. Keep an open mind and start building your connection early. Grab dinner together, talk through how you like to live, and set some basic boundaries. Many students are surprised by how much they learn—not just about others, but about themselves—through the roommate experience.
Your First College Class
Walking into your first college class might feel a little intimidating, but you’re more prepared than you think. Classes here can be more relaxed than high school, and you’ll find that your professors want you to succeed. The workload can be a challenge, but you have tools and flexibility on your side. You get to choose your class times, your subjects, and how you organize your day. That’s empowering! To feel more confident, walk your schedule ahead of time and give yourself room to settle in. Showing up on time and taking notes will go a long way, and remember—it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
Your First Game Day
Whether you’re a football fan or not, Saturdays on Rocky Top are an unforgettable experience. Being in Neyland Stadium for the first time feels electric, with hundreds of thousands of fans screaming and wearing their brightest orange and white.
Tickets are lottery-based and home games are $25 for students. Even if you’re not that interested in football, get out of your comfort zone and try attending a game or two. You’ll be surprised how much fun they can be!
Additionally, students can attend other sporting events on Rocky Top for free! They don’t call Knoxville America’s College Sports City for nothing! You’ll find there are lots of opportunities to attend thrilling sports games all the time with your friends and peers.
Your First Time Volunteering as a Volunteer
At UT, “Volunteer” isn’t just our name—it’s who we are. Giving back is part of our culture, and your time at UT will offer countless ways to make a difference in the lives of others.
The Jones Center for Leadership and Service (JCLS) is your go-to resource for learning, leading, and serving—both in Knoxville and beyond. Whether you’re passionate about community service, interested in growing as a lea
der, or just looking for a way to meet people and give back, JCLS has something for you. Trying VOLServe, a monthly one-timeservice opportunity that introduces you to local nonprofits and causes is a great way to get started. Then later this fall if you are looking for something more immersive, VOLbreaks offers service trips that allow you to travel and serve in different communities while learning about important social issues.
You’ve got this!
Your first year at UT will be full of new faces, new routines, and new adventures. Some moments might feel unfamiliar, and others will be unforgettable. The important thing to remember is that you’re not expected to have it all figured out on day one. That’s what this year is for.
Here at UT, you’re part of a community that’s ready to support you, celebrate with you, and help you grow. So take a deep breath, be open to what’s ahead, and enjoy all the firsts that come with becoming a Vol.