by: Angela Palese
Coming back to Harrisonburg and realizing that I was about to experience my last-first-day-of-class was a punch in the gut I never anticipated. If you had told my freshman-year self that I was going to be devastated and nostalgic my senior year, I would never have believed you. I could never imagine going anywhere else for these four years, and I am extremely jealous of the freshmen starting their journey at JMU.
Moving into a dorm freshman year is quite the wake-up call. Having a roommate who is either a stranger or a close friend tests your patience in ways I could have never expected. My freshman year roommate is still one of my best friends but I know that is not the case for everybody. Outgrowing people in your life is a sign of growth, something no one should ever be ashamed of.
Starting classes as a freshman is intimidating. In high school, your teachers guide you to success. Then, suddenly, you have college professors who care about your success, but all they can do is give you the tools to be successful. During my first semester at JMU, I got the worst grades I had ever received in all my years of school. I had to learn to give myself grace and not compare myself to other people’s journeys. This is your academic journey, go about it at your own pace and be kind to yourself in the process.
Navigating new friends in a new city is hard. Coming to college there may be people you know from home but there also may be no one. Do not be afraid to start a conversation with a stranger. Some of those conversations may spark a friendship and others may leave you walking away proud that you stepped out of your comfort zone. Regardless of the outcome, you should always be proud of yourself for being kind to others. One of my best friendships throughout college started because I simply told her I liked her shirt. Four years later she is one of my favorite people ever. Never be afraid to start a conversation.
Your freshman year of college is a pivotal year of your life. For some it is moving away for the first time, having a roommate for the first time, learning how to study, and making new friends for the first time. These years will fly by so quickly, a cliche I know, but it could not be more true. In the blink of an eye, it is your last first day of school and you're surrounded by friends you have made along the way. Be graceful with yourself.
lf as you navigate becoming your own person. Make mistakes, outgrow people, find what you're passionate about, and never compare your journey to others.
Enjoy your years at JMU! ROLL DUKES!
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