By Julia Lester
As first semester freshmen, we’ve experienced a gamut of emotions. We’ve felt the excitement of making new friends and creating amazing memories, but also have felt that first bout of homesickness that comes with living alone for the first time. We’ve struggled to maintain old relationships as we create new ones, while simultaneously experiencing the elation of finding our own place at TCNJ. It’s definitely been an emotional rollercoaster. But somehow we’ve survived first semester and have learned a ton along the way.
Take a moment to think about how far we’ve all come since Welcome Week. We started out completely timid, walking around in mass herds and embarrassing ourselves in front of the upperclassmen by asking for directions. It’s just a few months later, and we’ve mastered the TCNJ knowhow- we know what Meal Equiv is, why everyone loves Big Larry, and how to make that call to Fat Shack at 2 AM. Somehow, we’ve forged our own path.
As confusing as it’s been, we’ve figured it out! Looking back on first semester should be a happy reflection. College is a once in a lifetime experience, and it’s important to keep it all in perspective. As complicated or bewildering as first semester might have been, we’ve managed to get through it. It’s only going to get better from here on out! Take first semester for what it was worth- as a learning experience. We’ve all learned so much about not only about the TCNJ campus, but also ourselves. Just a few months in, and we’ve all already created memories that will last for a lifetime! But don’t despair ladies; luckily, we still have another semester of freshmen year to enjoy.
Now, collegiettes, enjoy your well-deserved winter break, and come back rejuvenated and ready to go. You know that you are more than capable and prepared for your second semester of college- you’ve already survived the first!