College planning and preparation requires a new form of reading comprehension. Schools will rave incessantly about the AMAZING programs and resources their university offers, but sometimes (accidentally of course) they fail to mention the possible difficulties and obstacles that arise. It’s not so much that they’re trying to blindside you or provide only half the picture, but instead, you have to remember to read the fine print. College brochures are a one-way mirror, and I remember the fears that accompanied my arrival into the full view of Pomona College.
Fear: Winter Break never arriving
This one was somewhat irrational. Time never actually stopped, but as homesickness set in and the class work and mid-terms became a perpetual irritation, I didn’t think December 15th would ever arrive. For a few weeks, I had a particularly rough time…I cried a few nights a week, couldn’t muster the motivation to complete my work, and my interest in extra activities diminished considerably. Meals became a chore, and days felt about 72 hours long. My friends who hadn’t been home since August were suffering similarly, so we weren’t the most optimistic and peppy group to be around as it neared December. Honestly, this fear was alleviated when December 15th arrived, and I landed back in Arkansas. It was great to hug my mom and brother, see my friends, and take a break from school.
As you make your way through the first year, homesickness may set in. I’d say that one of the most important things to remember is that the time shall pass, and you will return home. In the meantime, don’t miss out on fun and educational opportunities. This year, I’ve only been home for two months, but I know that December will be here before I know it…so the fear is non-existent. It’s easier for me to live in the here and now, and that’s a great feeling.
Fear: Not being able to relate to others
Pomona’s brochure stated that the African-American population was approximately 12{53c6eff5ce19621f7316832cfedf08caab022021f1679c62c3f44b8900ceaf72}, and although this seemed like a decent number sitting at home in Arkansas, 12{53c6eff5ce19621f7316832cfedf08caab022021f1679c62c3f44b8900ceaf72} looked a lot different when I arrived on campus. There were a sea of white faces, and I felt out of place and overwhelmed. Where were the Black and Latino students from the Minority Weekend that I attended? Where were my friends? Why didn’t I look like ANYONE around me? I attended a high school that was about 90{53c6eff5ce19621f7316832cfedf08caab022021f1679c62c3f44b8900ceaf72} African-American, so move-in day at Pomona was simultaneously shocking and terrifying.
However, my fears were soon laid to rest. I received an Ujima Mentor from the Office of Black Student Affairs, and my friends and I ate lunch with each other and hung out often. After finding my social base of support and comfort at Pomona, I was able to branch out and feel more at ease amidst this new ethnic community. Although I am a firm advocate of diversity and stepping outside of comfort zones, my introduction to the college shook this foundation. My best advice is that college is not high school. New people. New work commitments. New experiences. Don’t allow your fears to limit your growth.
Have a Happy Halloween! My favorite candies are Smarties & Nerds.