CARLY SUMMERSON
Special to The Leader
Transitioning from high school to college can be a scary thing. I would know; I came from a place where I knew almost everyone by name since I was a kid to a random town in Western New York where I knew no one.
It was definitely something I had to adjust to.
When I look back at my freshman self, she was a completely different person, and she had no idea what she would be experiencing in her future.
There are so many things I wish I could tell my past self, but I’m glad I learned it all on my own along the way.
I’d rather share my knowledge as a rising college junior to future and incoming students of SUNY Fredonia, so that they can make the most of their college experience.
Something I think that is essential during your first year is becoming involved.
Personally, I was never involved in anything in high school, therefore I didn’t really put myself out there like I do now.
Getting out there can be as easy as joining a club.
At Fredonia, there are over 170 clubs and organizations to choose from. Most of the clubs showcase themselves at Activities Night, which happens at the beginning of every semester.
It’s definitely a good idea to stop by, even if you’re by yourself or with a couple of friends; you never know what you might come across and be interested in!
I joined Orchesis Dance Company my first semester to be able to continue to do what I loved at my new school and I made really great friends because of it.
It’s okay if the friends you make your first week of school aren’t your best friends. The people you talk to will change all the time.
You will meet new people in every class you take, club you join and place that you go.
Making use of what Fredonia has to offer is something that you won’t regret.
As they all say, college goes by fast!
I didn’t think it did until I realized I was going into my junior year and wasn’t a freshman anymore.
Especially with COVID-19 happening, I wish I made use of everything Fredonia has to offer me from the library, to the dining halls to even what my own residence hall had.
This can even go for your courses, professors and advisors. They are there to help you and educate you.
Go to their office hours, ask questions in class and participate, become engaged and make a form of communication.
I definitely took it for granted, not knowing I would be sent home not even halfway through my spring semester.
Truly make the most of what you are here for.
College gives you the opportunity to create a fresh start for yourself, which could mean anything from changing your style to changing your views.
You are given the chance to truly be yourself and branch away from any old habits or lifestyles.
What I want to emphasize the most is to really take in what you have and to go with the flow. Being open minded in this new stage of your life is the best thing that you can do.
Don’t be afraid of wanting to change your major, step out of your comfort zone or do something you never thought you would see yourself doing.
Personally, my high school self could never have imagined the version of myself that I am now. Fredonia becomes almost like your second home, you want to feel that sense of comfort when you are here.
You never really know when you will meet your next best friend or receive the opportunity of a lifetime.