I finally finished my Sophomore year of college on May 12 at 7:04 pm, when I submitted my research project of 17 pages! This semester was tough, a lot of it depended on me holding myself accountable for time management. For example, three of my classes required me to turn in essays by certain points throughout the semesters, so it meant that I had to start early on by creating my own deadlines, if not by the end it would’ve been a hassle to get them all in. I’ll be honest, in one class I fell extremely behind with this one class, and by the time I began working on the assignments, with about a month to spare before they were all due, I realized how time-consuming it became – never underestimate something! However, by the end of the semester, I felt like I became much better at managing my time, I was able to complete four research papers – in total I wrote nearly 40 pages.
I am sad, but glad that I am halfway through college. My time here has given me the opportunity to further develop my interests, discover what I want to pursue, and overall make me a more mature person. While throughout this year, there were definitely lowlights, I am very thankful for the opportunity of being able to attend college and enjoy many of the privileges that come with going to WashU. I came across many obstacles this school year with my courses, I struggled with my Calculus 2 class, and I took a stats class that challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. Furthermore, I was in a deep search for internships and fellowships, and I was met with so many rejections along the way. I found myself having major imposter syndrome, something that I had thought would only occur to me during my first year. During those moments, I think it’s so important to talk to others about how you’re feeling because it’s easy to get in your head and relay negative messages to yourself.
As you further progress into college, there will be obstacles along the way, from academics to professional and in your personal life, but please make sure to practice wellness habits throughout this period. Connect with the counseling resources at your school, share with those close to you, and make sure to do leisure activities.
– Catherine <3