Serena, '08 — on the first year

Major: Social Work
College: College of St. Catherine
Hometown: Hebo, Oregon

"Coming into college I was really afraid of the workload. I had done well in high school, but with a graduating class of only 66 I didn’t know how prepared I really was. Thankfully, I was better off than I had expected. Also, I expected to have a lot more time than I actually do. Even though I may only be taking five classes now, which is less than I took at one time in high school, it seems like a huge part of my “free” time gets taken up doing homework. I guess the last thing that I didn’t really think about before getting to college was the fact that I was getting a chance to reinvent myself if I wanted. I don’t feel like I’ve done that a whole lot, but it’s nice to be with people who don’t know your entire life history…only what you want them to know.

"At first being away from home was really hard. My family and I have always been especially close so not being able to drive home on the weekends was tough in the beginning. However, within a couple of weeks I stared to find my spot in the St. Kate’s community. I found friends in my orientation group and on my floor and was able to set up a “family away from home” for myself. Eventually, my phone calls home changed from every other night to once or twice every week or two. Not to say that I don’t keep in touch, we’re still very close, but being so far away really gave me a sense of independence that I love. Also, it’s nice to have friends that live close by so that I do have the opportunity to go get a home cooked meal every once and a while.

"Even things as simple as asking someone if they want to go get lunch in the cafeteria or wander around campus to find where your classes will be are great ways I used to meet people right at first and start building a community.

"My advice to students? First, get involved in at least one activity where you can be a part of a group. Also, and I think this one is big, come with an open mind. Where ever you go to college, you are bound meet people who don’t agree with your views or actions, but if you can step back and really try to see where they are coming from it makes life a lot easier, and more interesting. Second, do your homework!!! Seriously, it will make your life so much simpler if you can keep on top of your homework from the beginning. Third, and I really didn’t understand this one at first, don’t bring your whole closet to college. If you don’t wear something at home, you won’t wear it at college. Trust me. Do, however, bring shoes you can walk in …quickly…so you can run to class. Fourth, live on campus if you can your first year. It really helps in that community building and also it helps you to get to know the college and what it can offer you better if you ’re there all the time. Lastly, college is all about balance. There is a time for fun and a time for work. Finding the balance between the two can be very difficult (I still haven’t gotten it quite right), but as you get closer to it things get less stressful."