Dreamer

Good morning dreamers!

As I was getting ready for another lab, I was looking over the crowd of students mixing and chatting in the hallway of the faculty, and I got nostalgic.

The crisp autumn air carries with it a unique scent of nostalgia, mixed with the thrill of new beginnings. There’s an unparalleled charm about the season when students make their way back to college campuses. The sight of backpack-laden freshmen with a mix of excitement and anxiety, and the poised seniors ready to take on their final year, paints a heartwarming picture of life’s beautiful transitions.

Going back to college, especially after a hiatus, is like reading a beloved book again, where every chapter is familiar, yet there’s always something new to discover. As someone who was a student not so long ago, and now holds a PhD, I can attest to the beauty of this journey. Seeing life from both sides – as a student and now as someone who interacts with them daily – offers an enriching and humbling perspective.

For those who are about to embark on this journey, here are some cherished tips for freshmen and seniors:

For Freshmen:

1. Embrace the Change: Stepping into college might feel overwhelming, but remember, it’s a fresh start. Embrace the new environment, the new faces, and the new experiences.
2. Stay Organized: Investing in a good planner or a digital calendar can be a lifesaver. Jot down important dates, assignments, and commitments. And even if you are tempted to ditch classes or leave it for the finals, TRUST ME, it’s easier to learn from the start.
3. Connect with Mentors: Seek guidance from professors or older students. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into navigating college life. And I’m not saying being your teacher’s pet is a good idea, I am saying that as a teacher, I appreciate more the ones that make my life… a bit easier, and I am prone to forgiveness.
4. Engage in Extracurricular Activities: College isn’t just about academics. Join clubs or organizations to nurture your passions and meet like-minded individuals.
5. Prioritize Self-Care: While the excitement of a new chapter can be consuming, don’t forget to take time for yourself. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat healthily, and indulge in activities you love.

For Seniors:

1. Cherish Every Moment: This is your final year. Relish every lecture, every project, and every interaction. These memories will remain with you forever.
2. Plan Ahead: As graduation looms, begin to think about your next steps, whether it’s pursuing higher studies, taking a job, or traveling.
3. Stay Connected: Strengthen the bonds you’ve built over the years. These friendships and connections will last a lifetime.
4. Give Back: Share your wisdom and experiences with the younger batches. Your journey can serve as an inspiration to them.
5. Reflect: Take some time to reflect on your growth and transformation over the years. Acknowledge your achievements and learn from your missteps.

And there I have some more pieces of advice for every one of you, out there, no matter the year:

• You don’t have to like everyone, and some people won’t like you! Just get used to it!
• Choose wisely your friends! Some of them will stay with you for life!
• It’s the perfect time to grow, to find ideas, to start working on your dreams! Why? Well, primarily because of the free time that those of you who aren’t forced to work, have!
• Don’t go overboard with experimenting! Even if it’s the perfect time for it, don’t let yourself be drawn to things that are not your type.
• Don’t forget this journey it’s all about yourself! Even if you hate it…
• Stay in the dorms! Life will have another perspective!

As the trees in the campus courtyard begin to shed their leaves, preparing for a new cycle of life, remember that college is much more than a phase. It’s a transformative journey, a rite of passage, and a foundation for the many adventures that await. To the freshmen taking their first steps and the seniors gearing up to spread their wings, here’s to a year of discovery, challenges, joy, and endless possibilities.

Until next time, have #adreamerlife,

Cristiana Apreutese