My freshman year at Franklin Pierce did not turn out as well as I had hoped. I had all these expectations going in that it would be great, it would be the best year of my life, it would be a fresh start. Well, while it had its bright moments, a lot of the time I found myself wanting to be anywhere but there. I had decided however, that I would give Franklin Pierce another chance because maybe it was just freshman year bad luck.
Going into this semester I was optimistic about how this year would go. I had encouraged myself to get way more involved because ultimately I think that was my biggest struggle last year. The first two semesters of college I was not going to get involved in much because I wanted to remain focused on my studies which meant no clubs, sports, or jobs. It was not until the last portion of my second semester that I started seeing potential in the school, and do you know why? I joined theatre group, took a seat as a senator of my class, and started reaching out to make new friends.
In addition to my shenanigans last year I decided that getting involved is what would draw me in closer to the school. One idea that was presented to me was becoming a peer leader. I personally in my first semester of college had two of the best peer leaders I could ask for. Casey and Meg were “Mom” and “Dad.” They took their jobs very literally and were there for us in more ways than one. When it came to needing help with navigating the campus they were available to me, when I needed help figuring out Campus Web they were there for me, or when I needed some friendly advice they were willing to help me out. They truly inspired me to apply to be a peer leader so I can do for others what they did for me.
When applying I was super nervous about getting the job because even though I possess leadership skills maybe it would not be enough. When receiving the email stating I had been chosen to represent my school I was thrilled beyond belief. I was fully prepared to be the best leader I could be for the incoming freshman.
As the weeks started to narrow in on them arriving I started getting really nervous. What if my group was quiet? Because as you all know…I am not quiet. What if my group thinks I am too weird (which I am)? All these questions started popping up but ultimately I was super stoked to get to know each individual and to be able to help them to the best of my ability.
Now that we are a month in, I can proudly say it was the best decision that I made at Franklin Pierce. It has been my privilege to help mentor these incoming freshman. Each individual is special in their own way and makes the job so worth it. The first three days with them was a struggle because the events were not always the most enthusiastic and exciting talks. But I tried making their experience as enjoyable as possible. We bonded so much in a matter of 72 hours that we formed these friendships that I find value in. Being a peer leader gave me this awesome feeling I had yet to feel at school. Now I have realized that becoming a peer leader has made me appreciate so much and has helped me fall in love with my school all over again.
