The year 2020 will certainly go down in history as the ominous “ year on pause.” College students around the globe had to adapt to the new world order: Zoom University. We traded in our live lectures and backpacks for virtual learning and makeshift classrooms in our childhood bedrooms. This past year, sophomores had their freshman year experience put on pause due to the pandemic. Now, with some universities opening up, sophomores have the opportunity to live on campus and get a second chance at their first year of college.
As a member of the class of 2024, I was a part of the freshman class that was unable to experience the typical first year of the college experience. This school year, I am lucky enough to attend some in-person lectures and live in the dorms! Given these new opportunities, I was inspired to create a plan to “redo” my freshman year.
THE DORMS
Living on campus during your first year of college is the epitome of the college experience. The dorms are a convenient environment where you can make instant connections with your peers. If you’re lucky enough, maybe it’s where you’ll find your first friend. Also, living in the dorms can help you socialize with your community, and after a year of awkward Zoom breakout rooms, I think we can all agree that we need some in-person interactions.
JOINING CLUBS
Clubs and campus organizations are a great way to get involved on campus. Joining a club is your chance to interact with like-minded people who share similar interests. It’s an opportunity to expand your horizons and develop important skills. Plus, being a part of an organization can help you get networking opportunities. So make sure to keep an eye out for social events on your club’s calendar!
MAKING NEW CONNECTIONS
GET. OUT. THERE. After a year in isolation, it’s easy to fall behind in your social life and that’s totally okay. I’ve definitely experienced and developed social anxiety after a year inside, and so have many others. So, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there because there might be other people out there going through the same thing. It can be something as small as a study-sesh or going on iced coffee runs after class!
As a rising sophomore, this back-to-school season should feel business as usual but it feels like the beginning of a new chapter. Returning to campus this fall feels like a new chance at the normal college experience. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, I’m confident that we will tackle this semester with our newfound resilience. To all the freshmen and sophomores out there, take this opportunity to make those college memories you’ve been so eager to make. So get out there and create new connections!