It’s hard to imagine that my first year at Ohio State is almost over. I feel that I have grown immensely this year in so many ways. The overwhelming feeling I had when I attended the activities fair that first weekend is long gone, replaced by a sense of belonging with so many friendships built. Ohio State is a very large place that you can make your own by taking advantage of all of the experiences one can find here.

Joining scholars forced me to branch out and explore areas and campus events that I know I would not have had I not been a part of this group. I enjoyed the diversity of the events that have been offered and the scholar’s program also pushed me to keep up with the hectic schedule of a first-year engineering student. In addition, volunteering through STEM Outreach and at the Buckeyethon were two highlights this year that I plan to continue every year.

One of the biggest obstacles I had to face was organizing my time in order to get all of the homework and studying required in my classes done while also attending scholars events as well as club swimming practices and meets. My favorite part of the year has been the awesome friendships I have made. Joining the club swim team has been a highlight of my first year at Ohio State. It has allowed me to enjoy my favorite sport and continue to compete at a high level while traveling to other universities to compete as well.

Looking back on this year gives me a sense of accomplishment as well as feelings of excitement as I look forward to returning next fall. I plan to spend the summer working in an engineering internship and will return to OSU in the fall ready to pick up where I left off, eager to build on the strong foundation I have started here.