As a senior with only a few months left until graduation, I have begun reflecting on my first semester of college: a timid student trying to navigate college and the pandemic all at the same time.
Now that the pandemic is mostly behind us and it may seem easier to start college, I can tell you the next step, no matter what it is, is still scary. Here are some things I wish I did sooner in my college experience and as a first-year. Hopefully this list provides some relief to those of you who are scared for the next step.
Join a club that has nothing to do with your major:
While I am extremely grateful for my experience with the Chronicle and encourage anybody going into communications to join, I wish I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried something different. Lasell offers a wide variety of clubs, whether leadership, arts, fashion, sports, or community service based. Find a hobby or passion and join a club that allows you to grow that passion. Take a break from your academics and do something that stimulates you in a different way. And if that club isn’t offered, make it.
Take advantage of every resource:
I did not utilize the Academic Achievement Center (AAC) until my junior year and still avoid the fitness centers. You are paying to live here: take advantage of every resource and opportunity provided. Go to the AAC for that class you just can’t grasp. Go to the fitness centers and walk on the treadmill. Shadow someone in the radio station or make a bowl in the ceramics studio. Immerse yourself in campus, there is so much right in front of you.
Go to events, make connections:
Students put so much effort into planning events that are fun, engaging, and encourage their fellow students to get out of their room. Even if you do not go for the whole event, stop by, participate in the activity, and meet the people that are there. On top of that, you never know how someone you meet and make a connection with could help you in the future. Sometimes, it is about who you know, not what you know.
Make friends outside your major:
I have lots of friends and acquaintances in the communications program, and that is not a bad thing. Despite this, my roommates and best friends are health science and exercise science majors, and I did not meet some of them until the end of sophomore year. You never know who you are going to meet and mesh with. Lasell is small, but not that small: leave your door open on move in day, say hi to people in the dining hall. Put yourself out there and meet new people. Not only will you learn different things, but you may meet your best friend.
Prioritize your mental health:
Whether it be the counseling center, making time every day to go on a walk, or not doing homework after 5 p.m., you have to do what is best for you and your mental health. Make a schedule that works for you and stick to it. Some people can write a paper late at night a few days before it’s due, and others write it right when it is assigned and take two weeks to edit. Do what is best for you, your mental health, and your sanity.
Call home:
This one is simple; your parents and family miss you. Check-in once a week and have a conversation. I promise, it will make all the difference, especially if you find a way to bring a piece of home with you.
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