Fresh air, a new environment, and the future awaited me. I arrived at school several days before classes actually started. The adjustment wasn’t too hard. Everything was just how I imagined. The people were friendly, full of activities, and most of all I fit in. This is the life I said. Arriving early to school had many advantages. I was able to learn the buildings and areas around class. Also I had time to scope out the scenery. When I first arrived I worked a week for the event management staff and got involved in the flag football organization. My time was limited and everything seemed rush. I had too much going on at one time. Both my father and I thought it would be best for me to not work until second semester. I didn’t want to rush my studies. Football was good because it not only allowed me to stay in shape but also gave me a break from studies and relaxed me. Within a few days before school started, I already formed a group of friends. We played basketball, football, we walked the city, and we all were welcoming.
My roommates moved in and it was exciting. I live in a suite so there were many faces to get accustomed to. In my room I have two roomies, Nate and Steve. All together there are eight guys living in the suite. Most of them are from the New York and New Jersey area. My closest relationship was with Justin. He is a student manager of the basketball team. We had an instant connection. Already he felt like a brother to me. On weekends we went to Brooklyn, his home town, many times. He showed me around the city and introduced me to the family. Already, I had a family away from home.
Classes started and it was pretty laid back. I take Philosophy, Theology- Intro to Christianity, Geo-Science, Western History, and Discover New York, which is my favorite class. We are required to do six hours of community service. The objective of the class is to learn the history of New York and to explore it. The hard part was getting all my books. Some of my books weren’t in our school bookstore so it required me to travel outside of school to get them. However, that only helped me explore my surroundings.
TIPS to Success
- Remember to always keep the syllabus your professor gives you.
- Sit up front and introduce yourself.
- Be early.
- Bring all necessary materials.
- Ask questions even if you think it’s silly, no question is too silly.
- Remember this is your education. Get the most out of it.
- Email your professors.
- If possible read more than assigned, therefore you are a step ahead of the game.