As my sophomore year of college approaches, I would like to reflect on my freshman year, as well as my aspirations for the upcoming school year.

Freshman year feels:

1. Petrified

Starting a new journey in a new environment was quite scary, adjusting to professors, new rules, Code of Conduct, and new ways of learning. Occasionally feeling overwhelmed because your schooling determines your career path, and your desire to do well and excel.

2. Nerve-wracking but challenging (in a good and bad way)

First-ever, first round of college finals was a little nerve-wracking, but as long as you put the work in and study, you will do well. I can attest to that, since I challenged myself taking difficult courses and pushing through with hard work and determination and succeeding by scoring well on all my finals!

3. Blessed

Having made such great friends, I feel much more alive, sharing laughs at lunch and in the classroom. I believe these friends came into my life for a reason and for that I am extremely grateful.

4. Motivated

As I continued to work hard, taking plenty of notes and preserving through those hour and a half classes, I was successful in earning a spot on the College of Education and Human Services Dean's List!

Sophomore year feels:

1. Anxious

As Sophomore year is fast approaching I am feeling a little anxious-this year will be even more challenging with biology lab classes, English courses, and last but certainly not least, PRAXIS studying. Even though my workload will be a little more difficult I am feeling slightly more relaxed in the fact that I've done this once already, and I know what works and doesn't work for me and what needs improvement.

2. Excited

Not only do I have classes that I'm genuinely interested in taking, but I begin my hectic, but exciting year as a member of three clubs, serving on the executive board for two.

3. Eager

The students at Rider are filled with anticipation as our campus has been under renovation for several months. The improvements bring a new excitement to the campus, along with the Welcome Back BBQ's, Cranberry Fest, R Factor, not to mention our Fall Concert, and many more exciting events.

here's to all of us Rider students — let's have a great year and stay safe!

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