“Don’t wait for the right opportunity: create it” (Stephen C. Hogan)
Starting this first quarter, I remember being hesitant on how to start things. Studying and learning around campus, I tried everything researching how others took notes and how they survived their first quarter of college. Ultimately I really ended up back where I started, overwhelmed with too many different ways, not sure how to really hold myself accountable doing it too. I really ended up not waiting for the right solution, the perfect method for me. Instead I just sat down and started working in class in my own way, sometimes using helpful tactics I learned from others, but mostly relying on my own intuition and methods to make the most of what I could, the best choice I’ve made.
We finally made it all way through first quarter! I really enjoyed these past 10 weeks (including the finals) and I really can say that I’ve learned a lot from all of this. Right off the bat, I can’t believe how many opportunities and freedom we have provided in college. Hundreds of classes, clubs, opportunities and people to meet are always a walk away. And whenever you or your friends we always have tens of shops waiting outside of campus too.
Living on campus dorms for the first year was a great experience. If you can do it for your first year, definitely go for it. It’s a great way to get to know so many interesting and unique people in the same shoes as you and in a way, a sample of living independently/ away from home. Being with others in the same situation as you, you never really have to learn and experience things on your own. Everyone is open to help out and give advice to anyone open to ask.
My bits of advice before the next quarter: be sure to enjoy when you get to relax, but be sure to be prepared and start making plans for ahead. Don’t let your major and grades be the sole deciding factor of your future, what people truly look for is interest in the field and actually those genuinely wanting to work and research with them. Finally, even if you don’t think you are doing something 100% right or as good as others, your effort to make it happen, to try is infinitely times better then never trying at all.
See you next quarter,
Nicholas Chou