Due Date: December 9, 2024
As I finish my first semester at the University of Maryland, College Park, I reflect on the difference between what I expected this to be like and how this experience played out. Before starting college, I expected the workload to be similar to what I experienced in high school, with my study habits being minimal for most of my classes. However, after beginning my first semester, I realized firsthand that being a college student is very different from being a high school student. For example, the midterm exams were much harder than I anticipated, especially in classes like CHEM131. My high school study habits, such as reviewing notes the night before, were not sufficient for college-level courses. Therefore, being in college has pushed me to adopt better study habits and to take responsibility for managing my time and effort effectively. Furthermore, I was not expecting to attend office hours as frequently as I do now, since I rarely did so in high school. However, by going to office hours, I have been able to build relationships with my professors and improve my performance in classes.
In CPSG100, I was not expecting to learn about topics beyond climate change. Initially, I assumed the course would focus solely on climate issues. However, the class covered a wide range of topics, such as scientific thinking and experimental values, which I found to be incredibly valuable. I found the discussions about pseudoscience particularly interesting, as they made me question my own beliefs based on untested claims. The outside-of-classroom activities, like the SERC trip, were also quite different from what I anticipated. The experience was much more hands-on and engaging than I imagined. For example, separating oysters from the water and observing the various ecosystems at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center was both fascinating and educational. Similarly, the Service Day trip, during which we contributed to the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens by pulling out unwanted weeds, was very rewarding. The contributions of SGC significantly helped the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Without volunteer teams like ours, the work would have taken much longer due to the small size of their staff. Participating in Service Day also helped me get to know my classmates and peer mentors on a deeper level as we worked together and supported one another.
Life as a university student living in Bel Air has been different from both high school and my expectations. Being a college student comes with many responsibilities, such as maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, eating nutritious meals, and keeping a clean workspace. In high school, I imagined college life would be centered around fun and social activities. However, I quickly realized that balancing academics and personal responsibilities is essential for success. Having a roommate also posed challenges, such as communicating effectively and respecting each other’s boundaries. I was not expecting to have frequent uncomfortable conversations about how to coexist in the dorm, but those discussions were necessary and ultimately helpful. On the positive side, I love the freedom to build my schedule and take courses that align with my passions and interests. Unlike high school, where everyone typically followed the same curriculum, college has allowed me to construct my education to my goals. This level of freedom is something I envisioned while applying to the University of Maryland, and it has been incredibly fulfilling.
The advice I would give to future SGC students is to be responsible with your time and to reach out for help when needed. Professors and advisors are there to support you, whether you’re struggling with study methods, course materials, or future goals. I have gone to my advisor many times to discuss my major, which I felt did not align with what I want to pursue in the future. After gaining insight from various perspectives, I felt confident in switching my major from biochemistry to public health science, as it aligns better with my goal of working in the healthcare field. Additionally, I would encourage incoming freshmen to not lose themselves to failure. Doing poorly on one exam or assignment does not define your ability or determine your future. Instead, focus on learning from your mistakes and striving for improvement. Finally, it is important to find a group of people that you can trust whether that be from club organizations, sports, or friends from class. Being able to support one another in a new environment is very important. Don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to new people!
Overall, this semester has brought its share of difficulties, benefits, disappointments, and unexpected highlights. Adjusting to college life required more effort than I expected, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. I’ve learned to embrace challenges, value my personal growth, and make the most of the opportunities presented to me. The College Park Scholars Program, specifically Science and Global Change has allowed me to meet people similar to my passions and interests. I value the community that this program has built and strive to continue the program.