The First Day
You walk onto campus. It’s big. It’s confusing. Holy s**t, I’m surrounded by adults. No schoolyard bully, no boss, no Sesame Street character has ever made you feel more intimidated. The thought of asking someone for directions is agonizing. You begin to regret applying through the CAO and feel that sweeping the floor at Tesco isn’t such a bad idea after all. With such a job you probably won’t find love, and spend the rest of your life living with your parents, but you’ll do it with dignity!!
The First Week
You’ve gotten lost. You’ve broken down in tears on multiple occasions. Walked into a lecture, sat down, only to realise it wasn’t the right place. Nearly fell down the steps in a theatre. You’ve attempted to talk to the person sitting next to you in a lecture, only for them to give you a weird look in return. People have stopped you in the corridors and demanded you join their society, or take their cards, and you agree out of fear for your life.
The First Month
You’ve joined some societies, made some friends, and assignments have been set. It’s all good though, you have a few weeks. You’ve yet to actually get involved in any society activities…there will be plenty of time for that. You spend the time binging on new shows on Netflix (must see what the fuss is about around Game of Thrones). You go on a few nights out, shift a few randomers from your tutorials (hide the next time you see them). You even start to speak in class. (Well, look at me, aren’t opinionated?) You feel like the shit.
A Few Weeks Later
The assignment is due tomorrow, and you find yourself frantically ringing college friends for help. How many sources did you use? How do you cite? How do you reference? What is MLA? Harvard Style? There’s a difference? All the caffeine and sugar won’t save you now. Try not to cry
Christmas Break
You enjoy the long break, and silently vow not to make the same mistakes you did in the last semester. Boy, this break sure is long isn’t it?
Week 1 of Semester 2
You go to the gym for an hour; you get a solid 2 hours of studying and prep done in the library. I really wasn’t kidding myself when I said I’d step up this semester. I’m exercising; I’m actually doing the work this time. The phrase “new year, new me” isn’t complete BS. Maybe…maybe I am capable of living in this world!
A Few Weeks Later
Well…fuck.
Now
You look back on your year with fondness. You had a blast. It wasn’t nearly as rough as you thought it’d be. You met some nice people. Did you essays in what you consider record breaking time. In a few weeks, your final exams will be done and you’ll have 3 months free. You’ve been appointed a Peer Mentor and are thrilled that you’ll have your very own minions to chaperone. Bring on second year!!!
