By Jack Ruderman
It has been over a month since most first-year students arrived at Springfield College. Every day throughout the week they can be found doing everything from working out at the Wellness Center to hanging out in the Campus Union to taking part in campus activities.
That hasn’t stopped them from taking the initiative and embracing the college experience. College can be a big adjustment for many people, especially during the first semester. Experiencing challenges with prioritizing school work, clubs, and sports has been substantial for a while. But, there could be something that anyone can relate to which is having plenty of time on hand.
\The Student spoke with four first years about their experiences so far.
“It’s good. It definitely took a little bit to adjust, but I feel like now everyone, including myself, has started to fall into a bit of a routine so I’m getting really comfortable with it,” said Liam Shannon, a Communications/Sports Journalism major from the Philadelphia area. “I am very motivated to get my work done fairly quickly so that I can have the weekends and the night times for my social life. The social life kind of drives my motivation to get my work done. I get that done as quick as possible in order to be able to still have a pretty good social life.”
As some students were getting ready to head to classes and eat breakfast in Cheney Hall, another student had a word to say about their experience at Springfield College.
“I came in here not knowing what to expect but it’s everything that I wanted to come to college for. It feels great,” said Ben Stegina, an Exercise Science major from North Branford, Conn.
Being away from home can be challenging for students who do not live in New England – especially for those from international countries. This is why there is a supportive community here on campus that will help new students become adjusted to this lively atmosphere.
“I miss my family. It’s quite a hike to get here and I know that I’m thinking about them. I’m doing it for them,” said Jeremy Brown, who is from Australia. “Australia is not too different, just a little bit socially different. But it’s made it pretty much easier that it’s a Western country, so not too bad. I’m blessed.”
Some people may not miss home as much since Springfield College has become a second home to them over the course of their time here so far.
“Well actually…a really funny story. I love it here. I don’t want to go home,” said Mia Tyler from Hebron, Conn.
With midterm exams coming up in the next couple of weeks, there is a level of stress and anxiety from many students when it comes to that time of year well before an almost week-long Thanksgiving break.
“Honestly it wasn’t as bad as I thought. Everyone was like college feels much harder. But like, I mean, at least for me right now it hasn’t been too bad. It’s been better than I thought,” said Josh Cararra.
Photo Courtesy of Springfield College.