How to Make Adjusting Easier as a Freshman
College can be a scary place for every freshman at first, especially finding their place in it. But take comfort that you’re not alone. Starting at orientation, you’re meeting people who have been in your spot, who now are helping you try new things with people you’ve never met before.
When I first came to Arcadia, I don’t think I was as ready as I should have been. I was in several programs, including the START (Students Taking Active Responsibility Together) program for Civic Scholars, FYSAE, and Stepping Stones. I was very nervous at first, even though everyone involved was just like me. I assumed it would be a boring orientation with leaders telling us about the opportunities I already knew we had. However, I judged it too harshly. In reality, I’m so glad I did the START program. It was such a fun way to meet new people and get comfortable around campus. That’s the best way to feel comfortable, get uncomfortable and try new things, especially something specific to your interests like I did with START.
While I adjusted quickly, I know that’s not how it goes for everyones. It took some of my first-year friends longer to feel comfortable with this new way of life. I talked to some of them to hear how it went.
Bunny Trivedy ‘26 decided to try out for Arcadia’s new Improv Team. I asked her if she was nervous to try something she hadn’t done before in a new climate. “I was a little nervous just because of my negative connotation of a college improv team,” Bunny answered. “I really auditioned for the fun of it, but when I got in, I was glad to take the risk and joined because it’s been fun so far.”
Payton Goltz is a freshman on the women’s ice hockey team and is all the way from Peoria, Arizona. “I would say it was a strange and nerve-wracking experience overall,” she told me about the move to Pennsylvania. “ But overall I’ve made great friends that made it easier to adjust.” I also asked, “Do you feel welcome by the girls on the team?” She responded with, “Absolutely. It was 10 times better than I thought it would be. They do everything they can to make everyone feel welcomed and supported.”
John Storti is a new first-year track team member at Arcadia and a commuter from Conshohocken, PA. I asked how his experience has been with the track team so far. “I felt very welcomed into the team and appreciated how nice they were as it’s great to feel like that as a freshman,” he answered. I also asked if he felt like an outsider as a commuter instead of living on campus. “Sometimes because I’m not able to be here a lot since I have other priorities,” he responded. “However, when I am on campus, I feel incredibly included and welcomed by my new friends.”
I think it’s quite obvious that everyone’s beginning college experience is different. However, Arcadia does a great job of making sure there are plenty of activities for people of any age to join. From meeting and talking to so many new people, I’ve realized that everyone can find their place at college. I really appreciate the new friends and connections that I’ve made so far. I know it can only get better from here!
