As I prepare to head back to Tulane after the holiday break, I find myself reflecting on my first semester experiences. When I boarded a plane from New York to New Orleans on August 24th, I was anxious, fearful, and uncertain. My mind was cluttered with all types of thoughts. Will I make friends? Will I miss home? Will I find my place? The first few hours were a bit overwhelming. I started with an empty room, which would soon become my new home. When it came time to say goodbye to my parents and my younger brother, I promised myself I would not look back. I desperately held back tears, not wanting to meet people for the first time with mascara dripping down my cheeks. I kept my promise, and I did not look back to see my parents drive away. I walked back to my “room” alone but ready to begin the new chapter of my life.
The first few weeks were not easy. I met so many people, but small talk did not often lead to something more significant. I frantically called my dad sobbing that I couldn’t find my classroom. I facetimed by best friend multiple times complaining that I felt lonely. I was overwhelmed. Then something strange happened. I suddenly felt like I belonged, and my amazing journey at Tulane began.
In three short months, I learned a lot about myself and became a more independent, confident, and mature woman. So, here are the top 20 things I learned at Tulane:
- It’s okay to cry. While you may feel alone or want to hide the fact that you’re a little homesick and overwhelmed, sometimes you just need a good cry or a vent session. My roommate and I have many of these.
- Never assume that you can get to class in 5 minutes. I did this too often. Big mistake!
- Keep track of meal plan swipes or they will run out halfway through the semester.
- Keep in touch with your home friends (even though we are miles and miles away I absolutely love hearing about everyone’s experiences).
- Do not keep too many snacks in your room. They will be gone within less than a week.
- Do not judge people based on what you may have heard prior to coming to school (Jewish geography can be dangerous sometimes).
- Just because UberEats is convenient and available does not mean order in every night.
- Go to the gym (even if that means getting out of bed and pausing Netflix … if you’re like me you can even continue to watch Netflix as you run on the treadmill!).
- Always go to class! Many teachers take attendance.
- Get to know people on your floor! It’s nice when you know the names of the people that you brush your teeth with each night.
- True friends will force you to get out of bed when you’ve been there for way too long, comfort you when you’re sad, and make you die of laughter.
- Become friendly with people in your classes. This is necessary for homework help and studying!
- Go to the library once in awhile (You will be surprised how much work you can get done!).
- Remember what you post or get tagged in on Facebook is likely the first thing that will pop up on your dad or grandma’s newsfeed.
- Remember to call your parents once in awhile!
- Read the syllabus fully and do not e-mail teachers something that is clearly listed in the syllabus. (May not go over too well).
- Make sure to eat right. Plan your meals out based on your available time throughout the days because a busy schedule should not be an excuse for skipping meals.
- Find time in the day where you can be alone. (Whether it’s laying in bed, taking a walk, or finding a quiet spot, alone time is valued in college).
- Even though the dining hall is not the greatest thing, you will find something to eat and it’s important to eat there a few times a week unless you’re looking to go broke.
- Appreciate every moment and do the things that make you happy!
As winter break winds down, I am looking forward to next semester, and going “home.”
