Being an incoming freshman in college can be scary. You will face challenges that you have never imagined and it will test your inner strength, as feelings will run the gamut of excitement, fear, happiness and homesickness.
I chose Eastern Michigan University because it’s in my back yard and the short commute will save money for my family. My twin brother is going away to Western Michigan University in the fall and things are changing, but I’m willing to face them.
I had no idea what to expect at EMU, but the school provided so much help that it was unbelievable. Orientation tours are run by EMU students, so incoming students can hear an upperclassman’s perspective of the campus, and they can answer questions thrown at them in a heartbeat.
Once I decided EMU was right for me I had to sign up for classes. Orientation at Eastern was like nothing I have ever seen before. The students that helped out performed skits of college life, and the passion they put in their work showed that EMU pushes their students to the max. They were amazing to say the least, and convinced me that college is something I will never experience again.
A big thing the students stressed was getting involved. Coming out of high school playing softball but not getting any college offers scared me at first; I used softball as my way of meeting new people. Now without sports to lean back on, I am facing the challenge of leaving my comfort zone to meet new people.
I got a booklet in the mail listing all the clubs and activities students can join here at Eastern, and there seems to be something out there for every single person on campus. Friends outside the classroom will help your college experience run smoother and you will enjoy it more.
I also learned that getting involved in your major is crucial; the more experience you have under your belt, the better off you will be. Internship is a word you will hear all throughout college. Getting experience outside the classroom is key to success and will mold you into a stronger, more confident person. Not only will it give you experience, it will help you accumulate references for your resume for future use.
Whenever I think of my college plans I have to take a deep breath and try and relax; I’m scared out of my mind, but I know Eastern will help me along the way. Taking all that information into consideration could be a headache, but pushing through all the coming mistakes and embarrassing moments will give you things to laugh about in the future.
I will never regret my decision in choosing Eastern as my home for the next four years, and I’m looking forward to the challenges I will face in the future and can’t wait to build my skills.
