Being Aware is the First Step

Newhouse faculty rocks. And that's saying the least.

One week ago, I went to my faculty advisor's office hours to seek help for my freshman problems. Sure, from my blog all you've been hearing about are my successes and amazing events I get to attend. But let me tell you one thing: my college life is not perfect. I'm not some kind of magic kid that finds everything easy. I'm no pro. And you know what? I'm totally okay acknowledging that. Because I went to my faculty advisor and told her I was stressing and freaking out about my work load. And you know what she told me?

She said that it was completely normal. And it is. Block schedules are weird compared to everyday classes in high school. I mean, if you think of it, I'm only in class about 10-15 hours a week. A regular work week is 40 hours. I have to fill that gap with studying. And then there's juggling your life as well. It's tough and it's new. It's all about getting into the ebb and flow of things. I guess I just needed to hear that from someone.

My faculty advisor recommended that I see the Assistant Dean of Newhouse. Well, isn't that intimidating.

Guess what. I just got out of a meeting with her.

The biggest thing she stressed in that meeting was that faculty members are people too. And I learned that right then and there. She had brought her adorable beagle, Simon, to work and he was floating around the office while she talked to me. She gave me reassuring words about transitioning to college life and getting study habits down with groups of people. Most importantly, she told me to meet up with my professors precisely how I was meeting up with her.

"Become a person to them."

College is about balance. It's not about grades or competing with your peers. It's not about taking the most classes or spending butt loads of time in the library. Here's what college is about:

College is about learning everything you can as naturally and comfortably as you can. It's about meeting lifelong friends. It's about discovering your professors are only humans. It's about making connections and using them. It's about being aware of your weaknesses and doing something about it. You can't be too proud. Help is here if you need it, and you can't be afraid to ask for it.

I have two papers and two labs to finish. I guess all I needed was a little push. If I can pump out a beautiful blog in ten minutes, consider my homework conquered.