16 “A Positive Attitude Is Key” with Liv

For me personally I wish I would’ve known how close I have grown to my roommate and how important that relationship would be to me. (I originally requested who I was going to room with only to figure out that she had not completed the housing correctly, this resulted in me figuring out I was going to have a random roommate instead.) When we hit it off it made it easier to put myself out there and from this, I met my amazing group of friends. I also wish I knew that I would use my computer for absolutely everything school and academics related you truly get your money’s worth. Lastly, I wish I knew how much I would learn from living on my own and how much independence I would gain because of it.

You have to remember that everyone is in the exact same boat as you, everyone is nervous and new to this college experience just like you. Try to connect with your roommate as this is the person you will be sharing a space with, icebreakers come in real handy and try to find common interests with every new person you meet. If you and your roommate happen to hit it off, you have someone by your side to experience those first days with. For me personally it was easier to gain the confidence to put myself out there when I had someone by my side that I had established a level of comfort with. You are going to connect with people in the most random ways such as the bathroom or dining hall and that once you make one friend that web of friendships will continue to create itself. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and when you do be your most authentic and genuine self.

Favorite spot-on campus? For studying my favorite place to go is the Wells library, try to avoid studying in your dorm room as you will have a much harder time focusing on assignments. My favorite spots to eat on campus include Goodbody and Bookmarket eatery, if you live in or near the Northwest neighborhood the Starbucks in Mc Nutt is very convenient. I personally love relaxing and hanging out in my dorm room after a long day of classes and studying.

Not sure what you are majoring in? Here is my perspective on it–first and foremost, you are in no rush to make this decision, this decision is not an easy one so don’t let pressure and fear cloud your mind and judgement when trying to make the decision. You need to be able to acknowledge and be honest about stuff such as your values, interests, personality and skills or at least figure out what they are not. What matters or doesn’t matter will guide to at least a further understanding of which ones have the potential to be the right fit. The Explore Programs tool is an excellent resource to help you narrow stuff down and at least find a starting point.

Finally, some words of cheer and positive energy–everything happens for a reason, and it will take time to develop your new habits and routines. Embrace the challenges, live in the moment, and don’t take any of the happy moments for granted. College is here to help you grow and develop as a human being and help you embrace new experiences; it is not meant to tear you down. A positive attitude is the key to everything that comes your way during the college experience.

Name: Liv Pishkur

Hometown: Carmel Indiana

Grad Year: 2027

Current Major: To be determined…