Torey Auzins graduated May 1, 2026, with a bachelor’s degree in advertising management and minors in public relations and advertising analytics. The Grand Rapids native participated in MSU’s chapter of Public Relations Student Society of America and the Women in Advertising and Communications mentoring program.
Entering college is one of the most nerve-racking, exciting, yet slightly terrifying feelings. It’s a new destination, lifestyle and chapter of your life that you cannot predict. It’s the first time you are away from your family and living alone — you’re independent. As I enter my last semester, here are ways to make campus feel like home.
Embrace your independence
College can feel overwhelming and lonely, especially when you go to a larger school like MSU. Don’t be intimidated by the size of this school or all the people at it. Make friends with your floor in the dorms and people in your classes. You’ll start to realize just how connected we all are. Participate in events — even if you don’t know anyone else who’s going. Other freshmen are feeling the exact same way and are looking for connections. Trust me, you’ll make your best friends here!
Experience MSU to the fullest
MSU being such a large school means there are many activities to choose from. Do them! My personal favorites include:
- Become a Munnster (official student section for MSU hockey)
- Enjoy ice cream at the MSU Dairy Store
- Go to football tailgates and games
- Join clubs of interest (the thrifting one is so fun and PRSSA if you are interested in the Public Relations field!)
- Participate in traditions like the Midnight Scream and “Go Green!”
- Campus events with therapy dogs or painting at the Broad Art Museum
- Try all the food places on campus (Strange Matter, 1855, and the Sandbox)
And so much more!
Take advantage of how close you are to your friends. Do all the little things together whether that’s getting a combo quickly or helping them get ready for an event. Those are some of the best bonding moments I had with my friends. Plus, you never know where the day will take you! You could end up meeting other people because your friend decided to hang with other people she knows and invited you to join. These experiences are what made me happy to call myself a Spartan. The community is unreal — the enthusiasm, the joy and the determination. Join in all that campus has to offer and you won’t regret it!
Put yourself out there
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. When I carried that mindset, I met one of my best friends who shaped my college experience for the better.
We lived on the same floor in Butterfield, where I met her through a mutual friend. One night, I was hungry and wanted a Combo-X-Change meal, but all my other friends were busy. After five minutes of debating whether I should text her, I finally sent a simple message: “Want to get a combo right now, by chance?”
From a small text to joining a club, don’t overthink it — just do it!
