Question 1: What kind of study habits have you developed? Did they work successfully in the fall?
As a hard-working student, Sydni found this question hard to answer. She constantly found herself studying extremely hard for each of her classes and still failing the exams as they came. Despite coming into college with strong study habits developed in high school, Sydni realized she needed a positive atmosphere to succeed when studying. Some of Sydni’s favorite locations on campus to study are in the Thompson Library and Knowlton Hall (the architecture building). These spots are typically very quiet, and they are actually some of my favorite places to focus also!
Question 2: How do you manage your time between your involvement and your academics?
Balancing involvements and academics as a college student is no easy feat, but Sydni seems to have found her groove as a freshman! The key to managing activities and deadlines, in Sydni’s world, is staying organized. She has a journal that helps keep her on track. Sydni also uses the calendar on her phone to double and even triple check dates, ensuring she does not miss out on any of her assignments or opportunities. Prioritization is another way Sydni manages her time between involvement and academics. Although she is dedicated to all of her commitments, Sydni insists on always putting academics first.
Question 3: How was your first semester in ACES? What has surprised you most about the program?
The first semester of ACES was “pretty good” for Sydni Porter. She describes the program as “welcoming;” however, she has definitely had her struggles. Sydni has found it hard to establish friendships and connections in ACES, which surprised her most about the program. She believes that her cohort has not bonded much in Smith-Steeb, and it does not help that her relationship with her roommate is strained. Although ACES was not the perfect stepping stone for Sydni’s connections on campus, she has thrived in finding a community and friends outside of ACES. Next year, as a sophomore, Sydni will be living in a sophomore learning community. She hopes that this community will continue helping her grow in friendships.
Question 4: Have you had the chance to explore your desired career through internships, field experience, etc.?
While internships and field experience have not been a way of exploring Environmental Policy and Decision Making for Sydni, she certainly has participated in some other opportunities related to her desired career. Through the Undergraduate Student Government, Sydni has been involved in environmental projects right here on campus. Sydni also had the amazing chance to shadow Kirk Schuring, a representative and now a member of Ohio’s Senate, for a day as he explained governmental processes and gave her a tour of the Statehouse!
Question 5: What is your favorite memory from last semester?
Pinning down a specific memory from last semester to be declared a “favorite” was challenging for Sydni. Hanging out with friends has made a strong impact on Sydni’s college life. Renting board games from the front desk of Bradley-Paterson, spending a rainy day exploring Ikea, and taking a random photo shoot in German Village (where Sydni briefly saw Pete!!) are just a few examples of memories Sydni will surely not forget from the beginning of her college-student life.
Bonus Questions: What has been the most challenging factor of being a college student in your opinion?
Sydni’s most challenging part of college has been realizing that the path she wanted initially is no longer the path of her calling. For years, she was convinced that medical school was the way she would go for sure. After a rough first semester and a passionate dislike for every single one of her classes, Sydni concluded that the medical school path was not a fit for her anymore.
Who have been the most influential people throughout your first year of college?
The most influential people in Sydni’s life as a student at OSU have been her friends. Specifically, there is a tie between Nora, Katie, and Chris. Nora “dragged” Sydni to a club meeting, and if she hadn’t done that Sydni would not be a current member of the Exec. Board! Nora also encouraged Sydni to switch her major to something she loved rather than something she despised. Katie was one of the first people Sydni met at Ohio State. The two of them were in R-Lead together, and they “clicked immediately.” Based on their exciting friendship, Sydni and Katie will be rooming together next semester as sophomores! Lastly, Chris has been a strong influence on Sydni. One of Sydni’s friends unfortunately passed away, and Chris supported Sydni through her loss.