What I’ve Learned as a Freshman at Hamilton College

 

As you finally get into a routine, whether it is with friends, classes, activities, or even the 

 

places you go on campus, it becomes easy to do the same thing every day. Although this 

 

regularity may seem great compared to the uncertainty of the beginning of freshman year, 

 

things are bound to change at some point, and keeping an open mind will allow you to 

 

embrace change. 

 

 

People who have the best experiences here are involved in sports and clubs that interest 

 

them personally, regardless of whether or not all of their other friends participate. By being 

 

involved in many areas that interest you, you will always have different friends to go to and 

 

you will feel like an active member of the Hamilton community. 

 

 

With the hundreds of clubs and sports that Hamilton offers, it is important not to spread 

 

yourself too thin. If you don’t think you’ll have the time or energy to put into an activity, 

 

take a break. Similarly, you don’t need to go out with your friends every night. You will not 

 

miss out on anything. Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is to stay in and get 

 

a good night’s sleep. 

 

 

Whether it be a parent, sibling, or friend, taking time to talk to someone from home will 

 

help with homesickness and can be a nice break from the hectic pace of Hamilton. 

 

 

Especially in the warmer weather, find new spots to hang out around campus. A change in 

 

scenery will help make the campus feel a little bigger.

 

 

During busy work weeks it is easy for stress to build out of control. Know what works for 

 

you in terms of de-stressing. For some people, this may mean taking a walk, doing yoga, 

 

calling a friend, or getting sleep. For others, having a fun night out with friends might do the 

 

trick. Learn what makes you feel more relaxed and be sure to fit in time for it, even if it just 

 

means a quick break.