2 “Things Take Time” with Kate

Starting Freshman year at college is a crazy, nerve-wracking and exciting time. Here are some things I wish I would have known going into my Freshman year at IU. First I wish I would have known some things take time, whether it is making meaningful friendships or tackling new classes. By this I mean, you might feel lost at first and wondering why you have not made strong friendships off the bat or that a class is too hard, but these things will build and get better over time. You are meeting new people every day at college and by putting yourself out there you will find those meaningful connections. In addition, at first classes may seem intimidating but if you attend class, meet with your professors if needed and pay attention I found that usually you realize you can do it.

The second thing I wish I would have been told is that taking time to focus on yourself will really help you with all aspects and emotions of college life. Taking a few moments in your day to do an activity you love, try something new, relax however that looks for you, will all create a huge impact on your day and will boost your mood and energy.

When it comes to meeting new people and making new friends the biggest thing I recommend that I learned in this class is to introduce yourself to a new person in every class. This may seem scary or “pointless” but trust me it will surprise you. I made so many friends in my classes that I now sit with, walk to class with and even study with by doing that.

My personal favorite spot on campus is the IMU. I go to the IMU in between classes and love to get a quick snack, usually at Starbucks, and sit down and do work, listen to music, etc. It is a really great place to go to when you have time in between classes but not enough time to go back to your dorm.

Not sure what you are majoring in? Me either, here’s my perspective on that! I came into my first year, and still am, an exploratory major. Although this seems stressful and you’re probably wishing you knew what path you were on, major wise, however it really is a blessing in disguise. Despite what you may think, you have tons of time to figure it out and can use that time to explore so many different things, some you may have never known existed. Even though it can seem like you have to figure it out right away, you definitely do not. I recommend spending your time taking Gen Ed classes to meet requirements and taking ones that match up with your interests. If one of them stands out great! If not at least it was an experience and you can keep exploring.

Coming from California I was most definitely terrified to start a new chapter in my life far away from home. However, even though it has only been a semester I already feel like I have grown so much and am constantly learning new things and adapting to the environment here. This class has taught me so many useful tools for thriving here at IU, from study skills, making meaningful connection skills to exploring yourself as a person as well as possible majors that match you. A major takeaway from this that you should remember is that every single person is in the same boat, you are not alone. This is a huge campus, you will find the people and places that make it feel special.

Name: Kate Bauer

Hometown: Burlingame, California

Grad Date: 2027

Current Major: Exploratory