This semester has come, and almost gone, with the wind.

As expected, my class load became slightly overwhelming. I have loved getting to focus on music and really hone in on my craft, but, as the semester progressed, my workload exponentially increased. This has helped me realize the power of organization and hard work, as I have gotten behind in some classes.

I’ve heard that friend groups don’t get solidified until late first or second semester and I now wholeheartedly agree with that statement. I have made some amazing friends throughout the semester and have met amazing people, but I don’t feel like I’ve found my niche yet. I know that being in Arts Scholars and the music school will help solidify my people.

In regard to personal growth, I feel as if I’ve achieved a great deal while learning to do everything for myself. The opportunity of being independent in college has come with some struggles, but I’ve learned how to overcome issues and pick myself up after a tough day or week. I think the biggest thing this semester has taught me is that the only person who’s always going to be there for me is me, and that allowing myself to just be me is the best thing I can do.

Arts Scholars has been a great community to be a part of, but I was not as involved as I had hoped to be. My schedule was not particularly helpful in attending many events but I hope to change that next semester.

Attending Ohio State has been one of the best decisions of my entire life, and I try to remember every day how lucky I am to go to such an amazing school to pursue a degree I love. This semester has been a whirlwind of events and emotions, but I take in everything as a learning experience. This has been a great semester and I can’t wait to see what the next seven have in store.

I officially stepped on campus two weeks ago as a new Buckeye. Move in day was so hectic and emotionally overwhelming to begin with, but as soon as my parents and I rolled up to the curb of Baker West, we were greeted by enthusiastic OWLs who made the transition from the car to my dorm so smooth. It was so surreal as I was setting up my room that this is where I’d be living for the next nine months, but after meeting the amazing people in Baker West, I was reassured that everything was going to be okay.
The first night was definitely a difficult adjustment, but my wonderful roommate and friendly neighbors helped a ton. Change is scary, but having people to help me through it has been amazing. The Arts Scholars community, and Baker West as a whole, have been absolutely fantastic ways to meet new people and having fun. This past week or so I’ve been here, I’ve met so many amazing people and made so many amazing memories. The welcoming atmosphere of Baker has really helped to make the transition to college so much smoother, and I cannot wait to see how much more this community has to offer.
As a music major, my schedule is packed with courses and lessons and practice times. I was really nervous to start classes and become overwhelmed with work. I’m sure my courses will continue to become more difficult, but my initial nerves were soothed after meeting the amazing and welcoming music school students and faculty. I am so thrilled that I have the opportunity and privilege to study what I love with people who are also so passionate about music. My first day of classes was a crazy whirlwind, but it helped confirm that I chose the right career path. I am so excited to see what this year brings academically.
Another fear I had was gaining the confidence to approach people and say hello. I’ve always been an extroverted introvert, so I loved to meet people but the initial greeting was always hard for me. The Arts Scholars events I attended this past week such as the first year retreat and mixer completely changed how I put myself out there to meet people. Another huge tool has been having an Arts Scholars “big “as a mentor before I stepped on campus. My big, Jordyn, has been so great about giving me helpful information and answering any questions I have about classes, clubs, getting around campus, and everything in between. She’s also assisted in introducing me to upperclassmen who share similar interests or personality traits. Overall, forming these connections early has been so amazing and I love seeing friendly faces all around campus.
The first week at OSU has been an absolutely unreal time. The communities in Arts Scholars and the School of Music have been incredibly warm and welcoming. This week has proven to me that I chose the perfect school for me, and I cannot wait to see all Ohio State has to offer throughout this semester, and beyond.

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