Now that I’m a sophomore, I’ve realized there are so many things I wish I knew as a first-year. Whether it’s knowing how to cope with course load stress or learning Peirce hacks, I hope this advice addresses some of the things first-years at Kenyon are going through. Just so you know, it does get better.
1. Confront passive-aggressive roommates.
There’s nothing worse than living with unconfronted tension. You may or may not have a roommate who clicks with you, but either way it is better to communicate. It’s so easy to bottle up your feelings and let the tension build—resolve it sooner rather than later, before one of you blows up.
2. Make connections—talk to people. There are jobs here!
I didn’t really think about how I was going to get a job once at Kenyon. Luckily, connections I made early on turned out to play a huge role in snagging me that desk job at the library. Being socially savvy is a real benefit not only for your time here at Kenyon, but also in the future.
3. Look outside your friend group.
Yes, there will always be that original gang of friends you met during Orientation Week, but it’s ok to move on. Sometimes we get stuck in a rut feeling like we can’t branch out and hang out with others because we have to stay loyal. However, it’s perfectly normal to hang out with a variety of people. If you have made true friends, they won’t mind.
4. Use your resources.
I cannot believe how many times I am thankful I went to the rummage sale at the beginning of the year, because they had a textbook I needed for $3. I know it’s a bit of a walk, but do it! This semester I saved untold amounts of money by checking out books at the library, which is what it’s here for! Don’t ignore or abuse the many helpful resources you’ve been given.
5. Nap on 3rd Floor Ascension couches.
If you haven’t experienced it yet, I highly recommend killing time by taking a “short” nap on one of these heavenly couches.
6. Prepare your game plan for next semester’s classes in advance.
Now that you’ve got a semester under your belt, you may have a better idea of what you want to major in. If so, plan accordingly (even if you get teased for having an Excel doc with all the classes you need listed). If not, don’t worry! Just keep taking classes that interest you. Make sure you get your diversification requirements finished so that when you have decided on a major, nothing is holding you back from taking classes that you love.
7. Enjoy the lighter freshman workload.
Depending on the class, the amount of work required freshman year is generally lower. Instead of watching Netflix in solitude during your free time, hang out with friends or read a book you’ve been putting off. It’s always wonderful to get some extra time to yourself, and things only get busier as time progresses.
8. You aren’t alone!
When you’re under stress, reach out and confide in someone. This can be a really hard part about adjusting to life at Kenyon. Everything is new and exciting but at the same time can bring stress and hardships. A lot of the time, people withdraw into their troubles and can feel isolated from others. Don’t forget that we’re all dealing with similar things and can relate, so sometimes talking it out with a friend helps the both of you feel better.
9. A routine is not a bad thing.
Have trouble getting to the KAC? Set a schedule that allows time for personal goals. Going for a run, taking a nap, or going to an interesting lecture are all things you can slot into your day to either make into a steady routine, or to shake things up a bit, depending on your needs. Make sure you allot enough time for lunch, though!
10. Get ready for Harry Potter Day.
Last year there was Quidditch, a costume competition with D-Cat, and Butterbeer at Wiggins. For all the Harry Potter nerds out there, it’s gonna be wicked. :)
Some of these are silly, some you may already have realized for yourselves. But regardless, as we get farther into the spring semester, I hope that some of these realizations will be put to good use. We’re already off to a great start!