If I was asked to rate my first semester at OSU on a scale from 1 to 10, I’d have to give it a 7. None of my initial fears remain but I have developed a few new ones. For example, after completing certain assignments pertaining to my future at Ohio State in my survey class, my mind was flooded with questions: is this really what I want to do? Am I going to be able to be successful in these courses? Is this major right for me? I don’t have any of the answers to these questions and I probably won’t for a while but I’ve been learning to trust the process and live day to day rather than squandering in the uncertainty the future brings. When I chose to live in the present, it creates a less anxious lifestyle and I can stress a lot less.
During this first semester I struggled to make friends which was entirely surprising for me. My whole life I have been the social butterfly, confident in herself and friend to everyone. Making the transition to college was challenging for me. I didn’t see my family every day, I didn’t have the same people in my classes and to my surprise I live on a very quiet floor. I struggled to find community and make new friends. Thankfully it has gotten easier. I am involved with younglife on campus which has helped me find new friends! The Humanities Scholars program has helped too. (Met my dad—Ben Fortman ha)
I have enjoyed my experience in the Humanities Scholars program. The highlight of the program for me was most definitely the Chicago trip! Not only was I able to explore a city that I love but also create some awesome new memories with some awesome new friends! Moving forward, I could see myself becoming a Humanities Scholar mentor or getting involved in some other type of way. I am very excited for the spring semester and what it will bring!