Delilah Jones, a second-year student majoring in film production and minoring in English, shares her experiences and advice for incoming students.
DUNMORE, Pa. — Starting college can bring a mix of excitement and nerves, and student leaders play a key role in helping first-year students navigate that transition. As part of Penn State Scranton’s efforts to welcome the class of 2029, the campus is introducing its New Student Orientation (NSO) Program leaders through a series of Q&As.
Orientation leader Delilah Jones
Delilah Jones is a second-year student majoring in film production and minoring in English.
Q: Why did you choose Penn State Scranton?
Jones: I chose Penn State Scranton because I wanted to continue my education locally. As a 2024 high school graduate, the transition to college was enough change for me. Instead of a classroom that seats 300 students, I preferred a classroom with 30 students. I still wanted to be able to talk to my professors individually. I went to my first open house at Penn State Scranton and immediately felt welcomed, acknowledged, and respected. A few months later, I accepted my offer at Penn State Scranton.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to new students?
Jones: Do you remember your first day of high school or a new job? It's nerve wracking, and sometimes scary! But by the second or third week you felt like you could run the place, right? College is the same exact way! At first, I felt like I was thrown into the lion's den (pun intended) with all these students and professors I didn't know. By my second English class, I was in three clubs and auditioning for the advanced chorus in the Music Program. You are going to be nervous because unfortunately humans naturally feel that way, but you are also going to watch an entire new version of yourself flourish.
Q: Why should new students get involved on campus?
Jones: I like this question because I'm practically a new student myself! I've spent two semesters here and have accomplished so much solely because I decided to try one thing. It's like a domino effect, I'm serious! I made some friends from the game room and from there got involved with SAF (Student Activities Fees). I learned about future events and what goes into them behind the scenes. On a whim, I decided to attend THON this year with students I barely knew. It was so challenging for me to keep standing in the bleachers, but fellow students encouraged me when I needed it most. They helped me because those are the type of people you meet at Penn State Scranton. A couple months later, I was volunteering and vacationing in Puerto Rico with my now best friends during the Alternative Spring Break trip. Nonetheless, get involved. You'll never know where you'll end up.
Q: What’s one must-have item or life hack for surviving your first year of college?
Jones: A charger for everything you need. Yes, even your AirPods. They've died on me. Also, a bottle of water. Stay hydrated!
Q: What’s been your favorite Penn State Scranton memory so far?
Jones: Obviously, the ASB (Alternative Spring Break) trip in Puerto Rico. Some of my favorite moments there were snorkeling in San Juan, helping dig trenches in the rainforest, playing volleyball with all my new friends, cleaning the beaches, swimming in the ocean, and holding a ball python in an animal cafe!
Q: How has being an NSO Leader impacted your college experience?
Jones: I've learned a lot about perspective since being an NSO Leader. Last year, I was at my orientation asking NSO Leaders questions about campus. Fast forward a year, and now I get to help new students. It's crazy to realize just how much I've experienced in two semesters and makes me so excited for incoming freshmen! Being an NSO Leader has also given me opportunities to make even more friends and work with our amazing staff! I truly find joy representing Penn State Scranton, everyone here is so kind.
Q: What’s one thing you wish you knew before starting college?
Jones: Things will be different, but change is inevitable. Some things will feel incredibly rewarding, and other things will take a bit to get used to. Your first week of college will look nothing like the last week of the semester. That's OK, you're meant to go through these changes! It feels fast and slow at the same time. Some people say, "The days drag but the weeks fly." Continue to hand write your notes, bring a notebook and a pencil, read the syllabus, study in the library, talk to everyone at the club fair, open the door for someone, and listen to music when you're feeling stressed. The campus is beautiful, sometimes watching the sunset after getting out of class makes the day a whole lot better. Things are going to be OK, you got this!
New Student Orientation
New Student Orientation is designed to help incoming students and their families get to know Penn State Scranton. This interactive event covers everything from academics and advising to financial aid, billing and student services. Stay tuned for the rest of the series as NSO leaders introduce themselves and share their tips for making the most of the Penn State experience.
