Transitioning into college was not the biggest challenge, but it was among the most nerve-wracking experiences. Finding a new friend group and “home sweet home away from home” can come with a lot of stress.
While enrolling in NSU as a commuter student, I was not sure how my first semester would go about, especially with our “new normal” and living in a pandemic. The fear of not fitting in or receiving the utmost experience I had hoped for before attending college crowded my mind. The Zoom calls, social distancing and not receiving a hands-on experience kind of frightened me, especially since this was all very new.
I searched through SharkHub for clubs, organizations and jobs I would be able to attend to get my “home” fix and instantly found an opening as a Shark Preview Leader, an experience several NSU students rave about. I applied to this position, hoping for a jumpstart to my campus involvement for the next four years.
I was contacted for an interview, which encouraged me to put my best foot forward. I reminded myself, “No matter the outcome, this will contribute to my college learning experience.”
I received a call a couple of days later with the news that I secured a position in the Office of Orientation. As little as this may sound for some, this allowed me to gain brand new confidence I did not have before.
The thought of creating future friendships with my current classmates and freshmen who will also be in my position filled me with happiness.
After several weeks of training and meeting new NSU students, CDC guidelines were enforced, but I found myself forming those new connections. It became natural to speak to my peers at several different events and activities, including clubs I am involved in.
If I had any advice for first-year NSU students, it would definitely be to continue having confidence in yourself and to realize how special you are as an individual. There is not anyone else like you, but one thing is for sure: everyone has that same nerve-wracking feeling, especially when starting college for the first time.
Putting yourself out there in ways such as participating in class or attending virtual activities will only add to the college experience in itself, and everything else will fall into place.
I am wishing all of you luck on this exciting new chapter in your life. NSU and its students are all so excited to finally meet you.
