A Letter to Incoming Freshmen

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When entering college, what’s the first thing that comes to mind as a freshman? The hot guys or girls; do they have a sorority or fraternity; or what type of clubs/sports they have?

You may start to believe that college is like what you see on tv/in the movies. Well, if that’s the case, let’s just say: you will be completely shocked.

My first day as a freshman was January 17, 2017. I was excited because I was so ready and nervous at the same time. I was thinking: what if the professors do not like me, or what if they are complete jerks? I was so overwhelmed that my mind was racing a thousand miles per hour like a race car.

However, my experience was the complete opposite of my fears. The professors/advisor I have had so far love me, and actually helped push me to become the best I can be. I’m not saying that school is easy breezy, because if that’s the case, everybody would be passing with flying colors and wouldn’t be stressed about midterms, etc. But: you will become more mature here, and you will succeed if you make good choices.

I am going to say this to the up and coming freshmen: relax, breathe. The professors are so welcoming. Some are stern and it’s going take a cold day to get them to smile, but they want the very best for you.

Please, do not come to college and skip class because your friends are not in the same class as you, or because you do not like a teacher. You are in college now, where “What you do today, will affect your tomorrow.”

My top tips for first year students:

• Take advantage of all the help that’s given to you.
• Check your emails.
• Network — reach out to people, help out with different organizations.
• Take advantage of your education.
• Study and get a tutor, even if you feel like you do not need one.

Your first year is your easy year. Join a study group, or make one. Don’t be a procrastinator and turn in the assignment at the last minute. If you like to work under pressure, then go for it, but for most others, don’t. In other words: know yourself and how you thrive. Do not keep putting stuff to the side because you want to have fun or be with your friends. Better yet: make sure you have one friend that’s going be on your case and motivate you and everyone in the group to stay on top.

I’m ending this blog with a thought.

I pray that y’all have: No distractions, no unnecessary interactions.

It’s focus time.

It’s grind time.

Sheresa Palmer is a Criminal Justice major at Manor College.