Orientation Leaders…
You’re college veterans! You’ve learned the ropes, you’ve faced challenges, overcome them, realized you’ll face more, and have learned to reflect on and make meaning from those experiences. Tell us… what do you believe?!
Post submissions here to inspire the incoming class to share and learn from their own belief statements.
Select “Comments” to leave your post.
June 14, 2024 at 11:43 pm
Heading into college, I wanted to go into technology. I was drawn to this field mainly for the amount of money earned and influence from my family. I also chose computer engineering to challenge myself/use my intelligence and creativity skills to the best of my ability. However, what I found was I wasn’t destined to be a computer engineer. It only took me two months in the semester to find that out as I remember crying in my bathroom back to back weeks after two tough labs. That already was a flag as the material we were covering was basic, and here I was struggling with it. I also came quickly to realize how much I disliked math, loved english, and found myself less productive with the things I love. In response, I decided to change my major to communications and focus on my true passions of writing and creativity. I met with the STAR center and Career Center, and everything they told me appeared to give me a better future path.
My change of path worked as my second semester was much more enjoyable. I did well in all my classes, had time to focus on my hobbies, and developed a basis for my career path. I also got two jobs. One as a staff writer for the school’s newspaper and another as an OL for the summer. In computer engineering, every career I thought of I was second guessing myself on. But with communications, I have two careers, film and sports writing, which are two things I’m very passionate about, enjoy doing for fun, and could see myself doing long term. I think a lesson to learn from here is to follow your passions and a career that makes you happy is more important than the paycheck. I still have a lot of respect for computer engineering as it is a challenging major that will bring anyone a successful career, however, if you want to find true happiness in your career, regardless of your major, follow your passions. Ask yourself. What do I love to do? Can I see myself doing this job 15-20 years from now and enjoying it? What’s something that’s challenging, but at the same time, helps use your skill set to its true potential?
June 15, 2024 at 1:40 pm
It was the first semester of my sophomore year, and I felt confident. I’d survived the whirlwind of freshman year, made some great friends, and had a pretty good handle on managing my time. But then came more of the challenging courses. From the very first week, I knew it was going to be a difficult class. The professor’s words seemed like a foreign language. I spent hours in the library, trying to make sense of the lectures and notes. Despite my efforts, my first exam came back with a grade that wasn’t the best. I was frustrated and doubted my abilities. But as a college veteran, I knew that setbacks were part of the journey. I remembered what I’d learned from other challenges: growth often comes from the hardest experiences. I believed in the power of resilience and decided to face this challenge head-on. I started asking for help. I joined a study group with my friends who were in the same major and realized I wasn’t alone—many were struggling too. We worked together, explaining concepts to each other and sharing resources. I visited my professor during office hours, something I had always been too intimidated to do. He was approachable and offered valuable guidance. I also changed my study habits. Instead of passively reading the textbook, I began to actively engage with the material—drawing diagrams and doing practice problems until they became second nature. Slowly but surely, I understood the class material. The next exam wasn’t perfect, but it was a significant improvement. More importantly, I had regained my confidence. I realized that the grade wasn’t the sole measure of my success; it was the growth and learning process that truly mattered. I had faced a formidable challenge and came out stronger on the other side. Reflecting on that semester, I believe in the importance of perseverance. Challenges, no matter how daunting, are opportunities in disguise. They teach us resilience, problem-solving, and the value of community support.
For the incoming class, remember that you are not alone in your struggles. Seek help, support each other, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Embrace the challenges, for they are the crucibles that will shape you into a stronger, wiser person. And most importantly, believe in your ability to overcome them. College is a journey, not just a series of academic hurdles. Each challenge you face and overcome adds to your story, preparing you for the many more you will encounter in life. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward.
June 16, 2024 at 5:51 pm
I want to use this opportunity to give some advice to the incoming first-years. The transition from high school to college is not always easy. However, there are many resources that UMass Dartmouth offers to make the experience smoother.
In my first semester at UMass, I’d typically go to class and then stay at home for the rest of the day. At first glance, you may think there is no problem with that routine. However, I soon realized that I wasn’t doing anything to get involved with the campus community. Getting involved helps to make new friends and make connections. UMass has many clubs and organizations to choose from. Most of the available clubs and organizations can be found on the UMass myOrgs website. Choosing a club that really interests you can help you find new friends who share the same passion. Clubs and organizations can also help you network. Who knows, maybe you’ll even get a future job or internship opportunity from getting involved.
Focusing more on the academic side of college, the first year can typically be a struggle. However, UMass offers many academic resources for your success. For example, each college has its own tutoring center. In these centers, you can typically find other students who have taken the same classes as you are taking. They are students who did very well in specific classes. These students are able to help you with any problems you may be having academically. Professors also have office hours. They are usually posted in the class syllabus. During a professor’s office hours, they are available to assist you in any struggles you may be having related to the class. Lastly, if you ever need a quiet place to study, whether it be for a quiz or a final exam, the library has private study rooms that you can book time slots for on the UMass Dartmouth website.
Although the transition from high school to college can be difficult, UMass does try to help. Take advantage of all of the different opportunities. Make your college experience memorable and have fun!
June 17, 2024 at 12:31 pm
Great advice! Here is a link to the MyOrgs site for anyone interested: https://umassdartmouth.campuslabs.com/engage/
June 16, 2024 at 6:20 pm
As a college upperclassman, the past few years have been a whirlwind of learning, challenges, and growth. Stepping into college felt like diving headfirst into a vast ocean – filled with exciting possibilities, but also with currents that could pull you under if you weren’t prepared.
Education isn’t confined to classrooms. Every interaction, every setback, every success holds a lesson. I believe in cultivating a curious mind, constantly seeking knowledge and new perspectives, whether it’s through academic pursuits, travel, or simply engaging in open conversations.
Challenges are inevitable. But facing them head-on, learning from mistakes, and adapting my approach has fostered a deep sense of resilience. I now believe that challenges are stepping stones, pushing me to become a stronger, more resourceful individual.
College has emphasized the importance of community. Surrounding myself with supportive friends, mentors, and professors has enriched my experience tenfold. I believe in fostering meaningful connections, learning from others, and giving back to those who have helped me along the way.
To the incoming class: Welcome! College is a transformative experience. Embrace the challenges, seek out new knowledge, and don’t be afraid to question and explore. Find your own voice, your own beliefs, and use them to shape your path and make a positive impact on the world
June 16, 2024 at 6:58 pm
amota
I was surprised when I came to realize that in college you really have to put yourself and your wellbeing first. I for a while wanted to go into engineering because I wanted to do something that could help people while also getting paid well. It also helped that it was a very well known and appreciated field and my parents were more happy about it than I was. I did well in my classes but I wasn’t enjoying or finding what I was studying as interesting as I thought I would. I went into my second semester both excited and dreadful because I was getting into more computer engineering but I was so disconnected and I felt guilty because I thought I was letting my loved ones down, even though it was my future and career I was thinking about.
As the semester continued I felt out of place and lonely because everyone else is doing well in their classes and labs and they’re having fun meanwhile I am just trying to pass and move on. I really had to sit with myself and ask the difficult questions of “Do I really want to continue in this field where my heart isn’t in it?”, “Do I care more about making my parents proud or myself proud?”, and “Would I be happy working full time in these types of jobs?” The more I asked myself those questions, the more I realized I was in the wrong field for me. That I should be studying to do something that I am both good at and look forward to furthering my career. And now going into my second year switching to general management, I am so excited to not just take the classes but to look for internships, look into getting my MBA and doing a concentration in operations. I am looking forward to studying now because I am studying for myself not for other people. But to the incoming class, it’s not selfish to put yourself first! It’s important to explore what you like and not do something just because you want other people’s approval. While yes it’s nice to be supported and have their approval, I personally think having the acceptance of yourself is more important because it’s your future that you are building and the one that is going to have to live it everyday once you graduate. So do what makes you excited and we as a school support you for whatever that is.
June 17, 2024 at 12:30 pm
Thanks for sharing! Being willing to change course is important. If a major isn’t working for you, sometimes a change is necessary. I always tell my students that I changed my major 5 times before graduating!
June 16, 2024 at 7:07 pm
I have faced numerous failures throughout my life, from my first failed class to my first competition and many other endeavors. Each time, these failures have served as stepping stones, helping me to build resilience and come back stronger. These experiences have taught me that failure is not something to be feared but embraced as a crucial component of the journey to success. Believing in yourself is what I truly stand by. Knowing who you are in a word that always throws out who you should be constantly is much more challenging than people think. Sometimes, building who you are in this world makes you stand out more than being confined to it.
For instance, when I failed a test or a class, I didn’t return stronger because I had memorized the material. Instead, I reassessed my study methods and tailored them to suit my learning style better. Sometimes, it is more challenging to approach something without prior knowledge than to fail and try again. Failing provides an opportunity to reflect, adapt, and improve. The process of failure builds your character and essentially will be a huge stepping stone for your future.
Often, we are raised to avoid failure at all costs, perceiving it as the end-all-be-all. However, failure is a necessary component of growth and development. How can we know what to do if we don’t comprehend what not to do and why? The solution is straightforward: we cannot. Through my experiences, I’ve discovered that my most outstanding achievements frequently follow initial failures. My mistakes taught me essential lessons about what works best for me. However, through it all, failure has taught me that wherever I was at that moment in time, I was made for where I needed to be today.
June 16, 2024 at 7:38 pm
Manuel F
Coming into College was a transformative period where I encountered people, experiences, and knowledge that shaped my perspective of the world. As I enter this new chapter at UMassD, I reflect on a belief that essentially changed for me, which is the idea that having all the answers is a sign of strength. Growing up in Cabo Verde, I associated certainty and confidence in my knowledge with success, viewing any admission of uncertainty as a weakness.
This belief began to change during a family trip to the United States. Surrounded by a blend of varied cultures and viewpoints, I was struck by how different approaches to knowledge and learning could be. Conversations with people from various backgrounds opened my eyes to the value of embracing uncertainty. I saw that acknowledging what we don’t know is not a sign of weakness, but rather an opportunity for growth.
Embracing uncertainty is important not just for me, but for the wider UMassD community. In a world that is constantly changing, the ability to adapt and grow is crucial. By cultivating an environment where it is safe to admit what we don’t know, we can support each other in our intellectual and personal development. This approach grows a community of learners who are resilient, curious, and open-minded.
As we take the first steps on this journey together, let us remember that it is not the answers we have, but the questions we ask that define our path to knowledge. What questions will you dare to ask?
June 16, 2024 at 8:26 pm
Over the last 19 years, I have been granted shelter, food, and love. Although these may seem like the bare essentials, society buries the stories of those that do not get the luxuries of a complete home. As a college student, I have now reached the gates of independence where I have to earn these factors by myself. In addition, I strive to show gratitude.
In my youth, I never found value in my upbringings. I thought everyone had what they needed, just as my family had provided for me. Through my experiences and friendships, however, I realized I was so humiliatingly wrong. Now, I hold great thanks towards my parents, my siblings, my schools and my history because they have helped me become the best me– the version of me that can climb towards her dreams.
Now, as I work to find values in my life, I feel it is my responsibility to give back. To show my thanks, I put in the time and effort to meet new people, embrace work opportunities, get involved, and truly learn to love the little things. I strive to show my gratitude for the life I have been given by granting support to others. College is the best place to start.
I look forward to working towards a future we can all be grateful for. To embrace our efforts. To build our gratitude.
June 16, 2024 at 8:29 pm
When I hear the term role model, what comes to mind for me is how I want to be that for other people and how we should all strive to be that for each other.
Role models to me, are people who have a selfless nature and show respect towards the character of others, even though they may not always understand it. I think selflessness is an important quality because often times there is a need posed by society for having a more nonchalant attitude. Being selfless does not mean that you discard yourself, rather that you are able to take a moment and consider others. Respect is another important quality because as a role model, it shows you have the ability to listen and want to learn from others. Respect overpowers ignorance, as you grow to admire what is not known. In being comfortable with the unknown, there is a greater space as a role model to adapt and truly hold close the power that knowledge entails.
I feel I have been able to grow in my abilities to be a role model as time has gone because of my action proceeding the things that have happened in my life. Specifically at UMass Dartmouth, one way is how I have recently gotten the opportunity to be an orientation leader, which is exactly what brought me to share these words! Leading among my fellow leaders has been a character shaping experience as we have come together to become role models for you. From taking on this opportunity, my goal as a role model is to motivate not just my peers, but new students to carry themselves high and show their capabilities in making a better tomorrow.
June 16, 2024 at 9:18 pm
My Journey as an International Student in the UMASSD
As an art master’s student, I embarked on a transcontinental adventure a canvas stretched across the Atlantic. The United States, with its vibrant academic landscape, beckoned. Faculty members, like seasoned artists, welcomed me into their studios. Their guidance practical and profound shaped my strokes. “Blend technique and vision,” they advised, and I did just that. Within the studio walls, I found my tribe a diverse palette of accents, dreams, and stories. Classmates became confidantes. We shared coffee, critiques, and laughter. Together, we mixed pigments of resilience and empathy. The community, like a well-blended palette, supported me through brushstrokes and breakdowns. Success bloomed like a rare bloom. Internships blossomed, exhibitions unfurled, and accolades adorned my studio. Each achievement framed my journey. The gallery walls whispered stories of late nights, breakthroughs, and mentorship. I stood there, weaving, grateful for the tapestry that had unfolded before me.
Yet shadows crept in. The sun dipped, casting doubts. University fees loomed a tempest threatening my artistic voyage. The sudden shift from Star Store campus disoriented me. Like a misplaced brushstroke, I adjusted. Language the bridge between heart and canvas sometimes faltered. Emotions remained untranslatable, lost in translation. Resilience became my lifeline. I mixed determination with adaptability. Navigating financial cliffs, I sought scholarships and grants. The new campus a blank canvas awaited my imprint. Language transformed from barrier to challenge. Expressing myself in a foreign tongue became an art form an exploration of universal emotions. As my student journey continuous hope colored my days. Exhibitions awaited; collaborations beckoned. Perhaps a mural would grace city walls. Obstacles Mere ripples in the vast ocean of possibility. I stood an international artist woven into the fabric of this land. Fortunate, yes but more than that, hopeful.
My tapestry stretched beyond the horizon, every knot a promise of tomorrow’s masterpiece.
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June 16, 2024 at 10:18 pm
As a Masters in Computer Science student, I’ve learned to navigate the highs and lows of higher education, gaining invaluable lessons along the way. Embracing challenges has been crucial; viewing difficulties as opportunities for growth has helped me build resilience and acquire new skills. The power of community has also been immense. Engaging with peers, participating in student organizations, and seeking mentors have enriched my academic journey, providing support and opening doors to new opportunities. Lifelong learning is essential in a constantly evolving field like computer science. Continuously seeking knowledge through courses and self-study keeps me adaptable and passionate.
Reflection has been a key part of my growth, turning experiences into valuable lessons by understanding what worked and why. Resilience and adaptability are vital in the fast-paced tech world, helping me stay focused and motivated despite setbacks. Pursuing passion and purpose has driven my commitment and given meaning to my efforts, sustaining me even during tough times. These beliefs have guided me through my journey, and I hope they inspire you, the incoming class, to embrace your own path with confidence and enthusiasm. Welcome to this exciting chapter of your life!
June 16, 2024 at 10:22 pm
Do it scared! When you get to college, there are so many things you are going to be afraid of. You may be nervous about meeting new people and making new friends, worried about taking difficult classes, terrified that you chose the wrong major, or scared to change your major. These fears aren’t unique, they’re common for many incoming first-year students… Nobody is fearless! What separates those who thrive in college from those who leave feeling like they missed out is not an immunity to fear. The difference is that those who thrive in college are willing to do it scared, knowing that it probably won’t even be their only try.
My biggest fear when starting college was making new friends. I was looking forward to being able to meet new people, but because I went to a really small high school and middle school, I wasn’t confident making new friends. In my first semester, if there was someone who I wanted to be friends with in my class, nine times out of ten I wouldn’t say a word to them because I was too shy. By the time my second semester came around, I had decided that if I wanted to come out of college with any new friends, I would have to talk to new people even when I was nervous. So I powered through the panic and fight-or-flight, and… three of the best friends I have made in college came from it!
If you let fear control your actions, you will miss out on countless opportunities in college. In the coming years, if you want to get the most out if your college experience: when you are faced with a challenge that absolutely terrifies you, don’t change your mind or back out… do it scared!
June 16, 2024 at 11:10 pm
Hello future U Massd students!
When I first arrived at U Mass Dartmouth, I was filled with both excitement and anxiety. Coming from India, leaving my family behind was incredibly tough. The homesickness hit hard, especially during those early days when the weather was cold, windy, and dark-so different from what I used to.
At just 20, I was starting a graduate course in Chemistry, felt overwhelmed by so many new responsibilities and the absence of my family’s support. Everything was new-the culture, the people, the education system. I felt lost, how to manage everything alone.
But, despite the difficulties, the turning for me was realizing the power of communication. I learnt that there are always people willing to help if you reach out. My initial days were filled with challenges, but every time I communicated my struggles, I found support. Whether it was seniors, professors, or fellow students, there were people willing to listen and help.
From feeling lost and nervous, I transitioned to working as a STEM lab tutor and a research assistant in Chemistry lab in my first semester only. These roles boosted my confidence and made me feel more connected to U Mass Dartmouth community. The transformation was not easy, but it was possible because I communicated my fears and sought help when I needed.
My journey inspired me to become an orientation leader. I wanted to be there for the new students, to offer the same support and guidance, I received. U Mass Dartmouth became my second family, and I want to ensure you feel the same sense of belonging.
Remember you are not alone, communicate, reach out, and embrace this new chapter. Welcome to UMass Dartmouth. We are here for you and together,
we will make this journey an incredible experience.
Anushka
College of Arts and Sciences
Chemistry, Biochemistry Graduate
Orientation Leader
June 16, 2024 at 11:14 pm
When I started college, I had no idea what to expect. I didn’t know what friends I would make, what clubs I would join, or what my life would look like. I felt clueless and lost, constantly wondering if I would stay in my room or if I would put myself out there and truly make the most of my college experience. This uncertainty lingered until one day, when I decided to check out Unity House after hearing about a meeting where they were playing Family Feud. My roommate and I were bored, so we decided to go at the last minute. I’m so glad we did because that decision changed everything.
We started attending meetings regularly, and I remember asking someone from the Cape Verdean Student Association (CVSA) if they had any spots open. I gave them my email and started going to their meetings. Within just a few weeks, I became part of the organization and was even appointed as the social chair. I’m incredibly happy that I took that step and didn’t let my doubts hold me back. Today, I’m still friends with those people, and through them, I’ve made many connections. They are the reason I applied for this job because they believed in me.
To incoming students, I say don’t overthink it. If you want something, go for it. College is what you make of it, no matter where you’re from or how introverted you might feel. There’s always someone out there who feels the same way you do. College is a place where you meet people you never expected to, where opportunities come in many forms, and where you make lifelong friends. As you make your transition, keep an open mind. I truly believe that college is what you make of it.
June 17, 2024 at 12:25 pm
Thanks for sharing! Your post highlights the value of joining organizations on campus. Joining a club or organization can be a great way to meet people who share your interests!
June 16, 2024 at 11:19 pm
A sense of belonging was more attainable than I once thought. Moving around from town to town during grade school almost ensured the belief of belonging to be far out of reach. Many say that the grass is greener on the other side, but I believe that the grass is greener where you water it. My search for belonging led me to the Marine Corps. As it was a lifelong dream for me, the tight knit culture of the Marines fortified my decision to join. Spending five years in the Marines strengthened my moral character, discipline, and friendships above all. All good things come to an end eventually, but that was just the closing of one of the chapters in the book of my life. Now I have approached another crossroad of questioning where I belong after leaving the military culture. After working yet another job far away from family, I gravitated towards getting a college degree in mechanical engineering at UMass Dartmouth which meant being closer to hometown friends and family. I started to realize the importance of getting out what I put in soon after moving home. That only I decide where I belong by doing what I enjoy, surround myself with those that I love and enjoy being around, and finding my purpose in where I find acceptance. Believing that the grass is greener where you water it, only provides positive thinking. That you are the pilot that is in control of when you take off and when you land wherever it may be. As inclusive as a campus can be, UMass Dartmouth performs exceptionally well in providing all the resources for all professors and scholars to find their sense of belonging. Seeking out similar interests in clubs and making new friends in my degree or not through classwork and the welcoming environment on campus helped me answer many of my questions of my belonging. The only question left is, where will you water it?
June 16, 2024 at 11:23 pm
Yislayn R
Joining a medical trial at Boston Children’s Hospital was a transformative decision that led me to relocate to Boston. Beyond seeking treatment, it became a journey of discovering resilience and purpose amidst childhood cancer.
In Boston, I met fellow patients confronting similar challenges. Some, despite their remarkable strength, tragically lost their lives. Their courage and the bonds formed in our shared struggle profoundly impacted me, highlighting both the fragility of life and the power of resilience.
The community of support among trial participants became a source of inspiration and solidarity. We celebrated each small victory and mourned each loss together, fostering connections that transcended our individual battles.
From these experiences, my belief in perseverance solidified. It’s about more than overcoming personal obstacles; it’s about honoring the courage of those who fought beside me, including those no longer here. Their memories compel me to advocate for better treatments and support systems.
This belief resonates deeply within my community at UMassD and beyond, emphasizing empathy and collective strength in facing adversity.
In a world where each person confronts unique challenges, how can we unite to draw strength from shared stories of perseverance and resilience?
June 16, 2024 at 11:27 pm
Do you think the world is perfect? Most people would answer “no” to that question. Do you think that you’re perfect? Again, most people would say “no.” It’s not easy to be perfect, and some would argue it’s not possible. But the closest thing we can do is to change for the better.
But change is hard. It’s something I’ve learned over my college journey, and something that every first year is probably going to learn too. Our brain is hard-wired into forming routines, and breaking them requires mental fortitude.
The most important part towards making change is realizing that only you can make changes about yourself. If there’s something wrong with you, the only person that can fix that is you. And if you can stand up for yourself, you can stand up for others. By working to make yourself better, you can start making the world better. But remember, you don’t have to be perfect. Every human makes mistakes, and the most important part is to learn from them. A mistake that you learn from becomes a step towards success.
Be your own advocate, speak up for yourself, and be brave enough to make the necessary changes in your life, no matter how difficult they may be. When you can do that, you’ll be ready to change the world.
June 16, 2024 at 11:52 pm
From a young age, I felt the weight of societal expectations pressing down on me, dictating what I should do and who I should be. However, as I grew older, I realized the importance of trying new things, dumping toxic people, and seeking support. This epiphany has transformed my life in ways I never imagined, allowing me to gain more confidence in myself and adding a sense of happiness I hope to never lose.
The first step in my journey was acknowledging my desires and passions. For too long, I had been living according to others’ expectations, afraid to disappoint those around me. One day, I decided to pursue what genuinely interested me. This shift in mindset was liberating. I began to explore activities and hobbies I had always been curious about. I took up skateboarding, which had always fascinated me, but I never gained the confidence to start. To my surprise, it became a profound form of self-expression and a source of immense joy. I also gained confidence and made new friends. This taught me that growth often happens outside our comfort zones and that the fear of failure should never hold us back from exploring new opportunities.
As I delved deeper into self-discovery, I recognized the necessity of removing toxic people from my life. These individuals drained my energy, undermined my confidence, and impeded my growth. Ending these relationships was difficult, but it was essential for my well-being. I learned that surrounding myself with positive, supportive individuals was crucial for my mental and emotional health. This decision allowed me to focus on nurturing relationships that uplifted and inspired me.
I discovered the importance of having a strong support system. The encouragement and advice from my friends and family were invaluable. Additionally, I sought professional help through therapy, which provided me with tools to navigate challenges and build resilience. This support network became my backbone, giving me the strength to overcome difficult obstacles.
Ultimately, my journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and empowerment. By honoring my desires, embracing new experiences, removing negativity, and seeking support, I have unlocked a deeper sense of fulfillment and happiness. This path may not always be easy, but it is undoubtedly worth it. I am proud of the person I am becoming, and I look forward to continuing this journey of growth and self-love.
June 16, 2024 at 11:57 pm
As college veterans, we’ve learned some important life lessons that have molded our ideas. First and first, adaptability is essential. Being adaptable and open to new experiences has helped us navigate the ups and downs of college life. We’ve also discovered the hard way that persistence pays off. Sticking it out through difficult times, whether it’s a harsh class or personal failures, has demonstrated that resilience and dedication can carry us over the majority of problems. Our community has been a rock; the support of friends, mentors, and teachers has made all the difference, demonstrating that we truly thrive when we collaborate. made a commitment to lifelong learning; our curiosity and desire to grow will not cease when we graduate.We’ve found that thinking back on our experiences has been essential in identifying our strengths and areas for growth. Accepting diversity has improved our college experience and awakened our awareness of the importance of many viewpoints. We now know that equilibrium is crucial. Maintaining our sanity and achievement requires managing our social, personal, and intellectual lives. We have direction and drive because we follow our passions, and we have some of our best experiences when we take risks and step outside of our comfort zones. Ultimately, we now recognize the interdependence of knowledge and the ways in which various disciplines complement and overlap with one another. These convictions that we have developed during our time in college will undoubtedly direct us as we move into the
Reflecting on our experiences has been crucial, helping us figure out what we’re good at and where we need to improve. Embracing diversity has opened our eyes and enriched our college experience, teaching us the value of different perspectives. We’ve also learned that balance is everything. Keeping our academic, social, and personal lives in check is essential for staying sane and successful. Following our passions has given us direction and drive, while taking risks has pushed us out of our comfort zones and led to some of our best experiences. Finally, we’ve come to appreciate the interconnectedness of knowledge, understanding that different fields often overlap and enhance each other. These beliefs, formed through our college journey, will definitely guide us as we head into the future.
June 17, 2024 at 12:01 am
Coming into college fresh out of high school, my number one fear was making friends. I had already settled into my friend group from high school and hadn’t made any new friends in nearly 4 years. Admittedly I was coming into school with a single friend, but wouldn’t be seeing them very often because we were going into different colleges. I was scared to branch off, so had only talked to a few people in my classes the first few days. Eventually, they made a group of friends and I felt a little left out. After they invited me to hang out with their friends for a little while, I realized that they weren’t the kind of people that I wanted to associate myself with, and I got the feeling that they didn’t like me very much.
After a while of distancing myself from them and spending a little time alone. I started speaking more in class and got more comfortable going around campus and doing things on my own. Participating in events and activities I know I would’ve missed out on had I stayed with the group and moved as a hive mind. I began meeting my new friends who all had different majors and different interests but they all wanted to get involved on and off campus with volunteering. They got involved in clubs and organizations! Even our work studies helped us to connect with more people I never would have known had I just stayed in that little group from the beginning who only wanted to sit in their rooms after classes. Granted I don’t talk to everyone I know on campus on a daily basis but I know we can always connect if we need or want to. We became resources to each other. A lot of my friends also encouraged me to apply to be an orientation leader! Now I get to help incoming First-year students in areas I know I struggled with in the first few months. I can’t wait to meet all of the new first-years, and introduce you to UmassD!
June 17, 2024 at 12:23 pm
Thanks for sharing! A lot of new students are surprised at how difficult it can be to make friends at the start of college, and it’s good to know that if you have trouble with this, you are not alone.
June 17, 2024 at 12:21 am
I believe that college is what you make it. For my first two years at university, I stayed to myself and in my room. I was content but felt like something was missing in my college experience. I longed for oppertunities to network and grow my social skills. During the fall semester of my third year, I made it my mission to say yes any interesting opportunity that came my way, no matter how nervous I may have been. I have been able to meet so many influencal and resourceful people that have helped make my third year so memorable. I have grown academically, professionally, and socially. Before my first year, I believed that all there was to college was classes and homework. After seeing what UMassD has to offer for their students, I learned that university is the place to become a well-rounded person in society. I can find help to secure a job after graduation, I can join clubs focused on academics like the Pre-Health Society or entertainment like the Black Student Union, and through all of this I learn how to network and build my resume. This university has so much to offer outside of classes and homework and it is up to you to go out and find your place.
June 17, 2024 at 12:50 am
heading into college was a new experience for my family and me as well, I was scared about how to approach this new experience. I was shy and didn’t know how I would fit into this new environment I knew no one was coming in and didn’t feel like I would ever find my place. I truly believed that I would not make it past my first month. but then something changed a girl I didn’t know sat next to me and even though we didn’t talk we always sat next to each other until one day she said Hi. We bonded til this day she is one of my closest friends so I believe that it only takes one person to change your perspective in your community and present you with a change that will forge a new path for you. That one person can be someone who is just a lonely as I was. We became each other support systems so I believe that even if you feel out of place try saying hi to the person next to you. You never know who can be your future husband, wife, or newfound family. all I am saying is JUST TRY it never hurts to step out into the unknown.
June 17, 2024 at 1:39 am
As a first-generation child born in a middle-class family made me learn valuable lessons that have shaped my personal beliefs. My journey has been a testament to the power of hard work, family support, and self-belief. Growing up, my family instilled in me the importance of hard work and perseverance. I learned that with dedication and persistence, I could overcome any obstacle. This belief has helped me navigate academic challenges and stay focused on my goals.
In 2023, I left home and all the family and friends even by leaving the high pay cooperate job to start a new life by to achieve my goals, my family believes that education is the key to unlocking my potential, since they couldn’t afford for education. They have sacrificed their own comfort to provide me with the best possible opportunities. I have come to realize that education is not just about academics; it’s about personal growth and empowerment.
Hence with all the love and support of family I choose to follow my dream in doing master’s and now in a different world I met all the wonderful people, who made me feel like a home. I finally feel included and not alone in this journey anymore.
Believing in myself has been crucial. Embracing both my strengths and weaknesses has allowed me to see them as opportunities for growth.