When I was accepted into The Ohio State University, I was beyond excited to start my journey as a Buckeye. Although excitement radiated through me, it was paired with immense nerves. Thoughts as “Will I love Ohio State as much as I think I will?” “Will I make friends as good as the ones I had in high school?” “Is Ohio State too big?” “What major should I pick?” “How will I find all of my classes?” “Will I be able to handle all the work?” and many others bounced around in my head.
Although move in was a bit stressful and overwhelming with people crawling all over campus, the excitement and positive energy bouncing from students both old and new made me feel optimistic for the year the come. The logistics behind move in truly astounded me. There had to be at least a thousand traffic cones all over campus. When we finally arrived to Park-Stradley Hall after checking in and waiting in the que, we were greeted warmly by fellow Buckeyes. Once I moved in all my things and said the hard goodbye to my parents, I settled into my dorm and prepared for the year ahead.
Over the course of first semester, I had numerous Health Science Scholars events. I appreciated these events because it helped me get to know fellow Health Science Scholars and build a community within Ohio State. Not only did I have events with HSS students, I lived right next to HSS students. Due to our involvement in HSS affiliated activities, taking many of the same classes and essentially living right on top of each other, my fellow HSS students and I became extremely close. My dearest friends who supported me when I was feeling homesick or overwhelmed with school work were Health Science Scholars.
First semester was challenging. Carmen was hard to figure out. Textbooks were on backorder. Adjusting to a non high school schedule was weird. Exams were tough. Regardless, with the help of many kind professors, teaching assistants and fellow students, I made it through… relatively unscathed. Although first semester presented its challenges, when I left for winter break, I felt fulfilled. My semester was filled with new friendships, new opportunities, and new adventures.
After a rejuvenating winter break, I headed back to campus anxious to jump back into classes. I learned how to prepare for, study for and navigate difficult courses first semester and I was ready to put what I learned to work. Long story short, my experiences from first semester tremendously helped me second semester. My study skills improved. My confidence improved. My GPA improved.
Health Science Scholars events continued through second semester. It was a good feeling knowing that no matter what struggles I faced socially, academically or personally, I had the support of my HSS family. Ohio State would not be what it is for me without Health Science Scholars. The people in the program and the opportunities granted to me by my involvement in the program shaped my first year experience.
Move out day was bittersweet. I was filled with joy reflecting on the year behind me, but sad to see it go. Amidst my joy and sadness, I reflected on the questions that bounced around my head in the months leading up to move in. It was then I realized they were all answered. Yes, I loved Ohio State as much as I thought I would. Yes, I made friends as good as the ones I had in high school. No, once you find your community, Ohio State is not too big. You don’t need to pick a major right away, you will find the one that is right for you. It will be confusing at first, but you will figure out campus and you will find your classes. Yes, you will be able to handle all the work and everything will be okay.
My first year at Ohio State taught me a lot about myself. I discovered what I excel at and what I need to improve on as a student. I will forever cherish the friendships I formed and the memories I made as a freshman. I look forward to my second year at The Ohio State University and cannot wait for what is to come.
