Freshman year is full of new experiences and transitions. The freedom of being away from home, making new friends and growing into your own person all make freshman year truly unforgettable.
But even with all of these positives, freshman year can be seasoned with quite a few difficulties. During this stressful time there are many things to consider: academics, friendships, being away from home and, in 2020, the threat of a global pandemic.
However, there are many ways to effectively deal with the stress of freshman year. Here are a few tips from CMU’s own Mavericks who have already lived through their first unforgettable year of college.
Sophomore Lauren Ratcliff said that one of the most helpful techniques for her during her freshman year was to surround herself with friends and most importantly, stay busy.
“Just surrounding yourself with friends [helps],” Ratcliff said. “The first thing I did was joined the club dive team and the little fun volleyball team and I think that really helped me keep a level head about the stress of starting actual college classes.”
During the time of social distancing, the freshman experience is a bit different. However, even in the midst of our unconventional circumstances, there will be plenty of opportunities for freshmen to get out and meet new people and enjoy fun activities. Events hosted by various different clubs and organizations on campus will still be held, with social distancing in mind.
Sophomore Naomi Ramirez said that one of the main things that helped her out during her freshman year was establishing a close relationship with her roommate. Being close, or at least open, with your roommate can really help the first few months of the college experience feel a lot less scary.
“Get really close with your roommate. Get to know each other really well. That way you guys know when the other person is stressed out or when the other person is not feeling okay,” Ramirez said. “You can kind of help them or know when to respect their space and not be loud. When you have a problem, they will most likely help you.”
Getting to know your roommate is especially crucial during the time of COVID-19, because according to social distancing guidelines, it’s better to spend minimal time with people and more time in isolation in your own personal dorm. If your roommate situation isn’t working out, talk to your RA about it and they will most likely be able to help you switch.
Even during the time of social distancing, however, it’s still a very good idea to spend time getting out of your room and experiencing college life while still being careful. Senior Dane Anger said that something that helped hi during his first year of college was spending time outside.
“Not sitting in my room alone helps me cope with stress. [instead I] go on drives, go to the Point or the Library or outside the library throwing a frisbee,” Anger said.
CMU also has many opportunities for students to get up and get out, including downtown Grand Junction walking distance from campus and the Colorado National Monument just a few miles away by car.
No matter how you choose to experience your freshman year, the most important thing to understand is that it won’t all be new and scary forever. These first few months are just the beginning. Stay strong Mavs!
