Graphic Design by Geraldine Santoso ‘22
Being a first-year is difficult. Let’s face it, you have to navigate a whole new area, get accustomed to living on your own, and meet new people all while juggling school. But, doing all of this during a world-wide pandemic? That seems almost impossible. Of course none of us have lived through college in a pandemic before, but here are a senior’s tips and tricks to help you get through this tumultuous time while also living your college years to the fullest.
1. Ditch the Dorm Room
This may sound obvious, but try to get out as much as possible! Instead of doing homework in your dorm, try to work in Case or the tables outside Burgess. The fresh air is sure to make you feel better, and you might run into friends while working, which will make socially distant socializing feel much more manageable. It is also a great way to meet new people or spark up conversations with those you haven’t had the chance to talk to yet!
2. Find your Routine!
Even if you have all online classes, finding a routine that you stick to throughout the day will make this weird way of learning so much better. Try to change out of pajamas and into school clothes every morning. Go to Burgess and grab that early AM cup of coffee.Switch up where you take your classes. Whatever it may be, it can help school feel less like a chore and more like another part of the day.
3. Reach out to PHE’s
Connecting with Peer Health Educators (PHE) is a great way to be in the know for all events that are going on! You can chat with a PHE about any problems you might be facing, get new tips on how to stay involved, or just talk about life! They also have events, like Friday Night In every week, as well as Hammock Hangouts in partnership with the Outing Club! This couldn’t be a better resource to have on campus, so go utilize it! For more information, don’t hesitate to check out to the Office of Health Promotion or on Instagram @skidphes
4. Chat with people in your classes
Even if you don’t know anyone in your class, reach out to them! Chat with others on zoom or ask for their phone number or social media during discussions. This will not only make the class feel more comfortable by having someone you can talk about assignments with, but you may also gain a new friend! You can get together online or outside socially distanced to do homework, study for tests, or just chat!
5. It will get even better!
If this first semester is feeling like a bit of a drag, don’t worry. More people than you may think are feeling the same way, and it will only get better! Once you find your routine and get used to your classes, you’ll begin to feel right at home. It seems unlikely right now, especially with the increased guidelines and lack of social interaction, but it will only get better, trust me!
6. We’re all in this together
These are really unprecedented times for us all, and we are still trying our best to cope with the new normal we are experiencing. Remember that you are not alone; returning students are feeling the same way you might be, so try not to get discouraged! Continue looking for new fun experiences, like joining a new club or doing something you’ve always wanted to try, and take advantage of the nice weather. With time, everything will get better!