When I made the earth-shattering decision to finally commit to Emerson in my senior year of high school, it didn’t feel real. The end of my time in high school was messy—- full of melancholy reflections of some of the most transformative years of my life, inevitable anger at the cancellation of all the senior events I looked forward to for 4 years, and most of all, a horrific sense of uncertainty about the future of our planet amidst a pandemic. My college decision seemed to be the ultimate light at the end of the tunnel, an escape from my hometown and the beginning of a brand new chapter! Then, my parents and I decided I had to stay home for the fall semester.
I cancelled my room and board, told my would-be roomie, and slowly silenced myself in all the big GroupMe’s I had eagerly joined. In August, I watched the move-in process through Instagram and Snapchat stories. I knew it was for the best that I stayed home, but it wasn’t an easy thing to accept. I wore my Emerson College sweater every night and I made sure I found ways to get excited about my first semester of college. Even if it’s through a computer screen, I was (and am) determined to make the absolute most of it.
I made a study space in my room, invested in a planner, and prepared myself for the first week. Once the week came and went, I realized how awesome all my classes were. They were mostly asynchronous and completely different from what I was used to in high school, but it didn’t scare me. It took some getting used to but I think that some organization and planning skills can solve any dilemma, especially this one. Professors are surprisingly kind and willing to answer questions or even talk. It’s easy to forget that professors miss the face-to-face experience just as much as we do.
The biggest struggle is undoubtedly making friends within the college. I haven’t been successful yet, but I hope to make a few acquaintances before I make my way to Boston for the spring semester. The best advice I could give in this area is to not be afraid to be outgoing—- shoot your shot! Send a private message on Zoom, message someone directly on GroupMe, or even email somebody from your classes through your Emerson email! People are more kind than you think and some spontaneity might get you somewhere. Having friends is important but having some study buddies is also essential!
Basically, I want to share that my experience hasn’t been totally negative and miserable. Although I wish I was on campus and not in my childhood bedroom, I can’t deny the deliciousness of a home cooked meal and the comfort of my family on the weekends. I’ve had a good time romanticizing my hometown and decorating my study space a million different ways—- I’d say I’m ready for Boston in the spring!