2 years from now...

 

 

2014. I’m in my junior year. So much will have happened in the last two years. I can’t even think ahead to next week, much less 2 years from now, so this is a challenge. If I had to give a speech to the freshman class of 2014 it would probably sound something like this:

 

When I arrived at Converse, I knew that college was going to be a BIG change for me because I was homeschooled. Being homeschooled had its advantages, but there were some things that I had to get used to. For example, having A LOT of homework at one time and trying to do as much of it as possible the night that it was assigned. I also had to plan my day around all my classes and try to find the best times to practice and do my work. I had to find SOME amount of time in my extremely busy schedule to have some kind of relaxation. I have so much more to think about and DO in college then I ever did in my 4 years of high school. I got accustomed to my schedule and my new environment rather quickly, which was surprising. Going from doing school in my living room everyday to actually going to classes in different buildings and having multiple deadlines for every assignment was a big change for me. I was surprised I adjusted as quickly as I did to be honest. It will be strange for you at first and will take getting used to, but once you do, it is actually fun!

 

I faced a lot of challenges and difficulties these past 2 years as well. But the biggest one for me personally was (and still is) TIME MANAGEMENT. Aka trying to find time to find time to do all of my work and practicing in an extremely short 24 hour day. What really helped me was using a planner and trying to map out everything I had to do every day and finding the most optimal times to practice. I found that it really helps to do all of your practicing between classes so you aren’t practicing early in the morning or super late at night. Another thing is try to do your assignments and homework as soon as possible. Do not put off work AT ALL! Putting off homework is never the right thing to do. Even if a paper or assignment isn’t due until Sunday and it is assigned Wednesday, at least write a paragraph or two or start brainstorming some thoughts. Procrastination is never a good idea when it comes to schoolwork.

 

I have learned that if you need help with something, even if it is the smallest thing in the world, ask for help. You will find that there are many upperclassman and classmates who are willing to help you. Asking your professor doesn’t hurt either. They will be glad that you are being mature and taking responsibility for yourself. You may think that your professors (or your peers even) will judge you or think you aren’t smart for not understanding the material the first time. I felt the same way. But I realized, if you are already confused about something, you will become EVEN MORE confused if you try to muscle through it yourself. (especially a theory worksheet “cringe”)

 

My advice to you all is make sure to TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES! Sometimes, you may have to choose between eating lunch and practicing for a recital. Don’t sacrifice your health for a paper. If you aren’t sleeping enough, you will be dysfunctional and not be able to learn anything in your classes because you are so tired. DO try your very hardest to eat a well- balanced diet, even in very stressful times. (For example: do not eat 6 Gee cookies in attempt to keep some of your sanity). Also try to exercise at least once a week. There is a small workout room/gym in the bottom of Montgomery. If that isn’t your thing; there is a also Zumba class (which is very fun by the way!) once a week in the athletic center. There are ways to keep fit here. If you make time to enjoy yourself every week, you will be much more mentally sound than if you are working all the time.

 

All in all, college will be a new and different experience, but it will be the adventure of a lifetime!