A New Beginning: A Freshman's Thoughts on Adjusting to the Wesleyan Experience

What a roller coaster preparing for college has been! For almost four months I have been planning, organizing, re-organizing and trying to make sense of this new stage of life all while trying to remain sane. I am so thrilled to finally be able to step outside of my comfort zone and be exposed to many new things that I previously would have never considered. I am still in the adjusting phase and probably will be for at least a couple more weeks but can already feel that I have made the right decision. There is something about this school that just puts me in a good mood. Yes, I have been unhappy at times, but it doesn’t seem to take long for something to cheer me up. If nothing else, the massive amount of squirrels provide a good laugh.

After one week of class, the work load seems to be manageable as long as I stay focused. It will be interesting to see how I am able to balance a healthy social life while achieving the grades that I desire. The staff here at Wesleyan has been excellent this far. I feel very sure that each professor is more than willing to help me in any area of difficulty. This peace of mind was one of the main reasons why I chose this college over a year ago. Since my arrival, I am even more confident that the staff is working very hard to help me succeed both academically and as a well-rounded person.

Although I am very happy here, it is still not home. No matter how hard I work to make my dorm more inviting, it is still hard sleeping in a cement block room that feels like it is ninety degrees every night. The food is better than most colleges but could never compare to home. Probably the most inconvenient thing I have experienced is the shower situation. Now, flip flops and fans are now a necessity that I would be miserable without. Although things feel a little uncomfortable now, over time I am sure that this place will seem much more relaxed. It’s nice to know that I am only an hour away from home!

-Samantha Phillips

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