As a new college student about to end my first semester, I have found out what college life is. Before coming to college, I had my own perspective on college life but after seeing it in person I was a little bit off. During my CPSG100 class, I would not have imagined a college class to be like what it is, as the coursework was easy and it felt like I was learning nothing. I went in thinking I was going to learn a lot about global changes on Earth, especially climate change but instead, I learned what exactly science was. We even got into the misconceptions of science such as the general pseudo-science being spread. What was even more strange was the excursions and service days that I had to participate in. Going on what felt like a field trip was never on my mind as a college student, as field trips are something done in middle and elementary school. This allowed for a more enjoyable time as I got to take time from work to just hang with friends in a new environment outside of campus. Back inside the classroom, I was expecting more rigorous homework not just reading books and answering simple questions. Even the quizzes were not as bad as I expected them to be. Overall, the class felt easier than what I assumed it to be.
Imagining living on campus showed another difference in how college life really is. At first, I believed I would spend crazy hours studying and doing work, leaving practically zero time to myself. Instead, I realized I had loads of free time which was shocking. With all the free time I joined two club sports teams while also having extra time to spend with my friends and just myself. Life on campus is lively which is great because I feel like I'm never bored as there is always something going on or there is something that I can do. What seemed to agree with my conception of campus life was the living arrangement as the space is just a small room with not the best amenities. What I didn’t realize though is the living arrangement is all that I really need. Centerville is a great place to live on campus as it provides good AC and I am in the perfect location to travel to my classes and the Y. The only problem I have is the laundry system as there are practically no machines which makes people have to wait for others to finish as the building is full of students. Additionally, I wish the elevator would be fixed as it sometimes takes a while for the one elevator to be ready, leaving me to take the stairs a good amount to the sixth floor. Other than that living on campus is great.
The one difference I enjoy though is the food here on campus. At first, I prepared myself for some shitty cafeteria food as the dining halls have to prepare food for thousands of students, instead, I crave for the next meal to occur. The food is always great and with the different types of food to grab I always can satisfy my taste buds.
To the incoming SGC students, I would advise exploring early in the school year and trying to find what you enjoy and feel passionate about. Starting early helps to see what UMD is about but also gets you more accustomed to life on campus. Another thing is to remember to always set schedules for yourself as you are the one responsible for your own actions. I felt setting a timely schedule to do my work and for activities with my friends helped me progress in my classes as I put ample time in my learning. Being able to put a schedule down creates a foundation for you to actually accomplish the goal rather than pushing things to the side. Finally, I would say don’t be afraid to talk with others as other people can help you in class or just make you a happier person. I know it was tough for me as I tend to be a shy person but once I got into some study groups I felt stronger in the classes I worked on. It really makes a difference on campus as you have someone to be with but someone you can go to for help.
After all the experiences I’ve been through so far, I could never have imagined what a great life college is. It's great to experience something new in life rather than the same old life over and over again. Even the downsides of campus can’t bring the overall experience to shambles there is always something wonderful to do leaving college to be something memorable.