Arrival survival

Forgiveness, you-time, crises, comfort zones: Skidmore upperclassmen and residential advisors offer advice for the incoming Class of 2019. 

Survival tips from returning students

The Class of 2019 arrives on campus this Thursday, Sept. 4. They’ve heard advice from parents, siblings, friends, teachers, the media, and myriad other sources on how to begin the college experience. For first-hand, Skidmore-specific advice, we asked those who’ve gone before and know best: current Skidmore students. Here’s their wise counsel:

• “I was initially concerned about being housed in a triple, but I found that it was nice to have an automatic connection to two people right from the beginning. All first-years are in the same social position: no one has pre-established friendships, and therefore everyone is interested in making friends. So just be outgoing and step out of your comfort zone, and you'll find people who appreciate you.” —Miles Calzini, Class of 2016
• “These will be some of the most independent and exciting years of your life, so don't waste a second. Go to that lecture, try that club, explore town, introduce yourself—and make sure you do what you want to do even if you don't know anyone else who's going, because you'll meet people there who also want to be there!” —Lainie Oshlag, Class of 2016
• “Whenever you mess up an assignment, turn something in late, don't understand a concept, or don't know how to solve a problem, forgive yourself and try again. Don't let your first few attempts discourage you from achieving your goals.” —Argent Alija, Class of 2017
• “Find half an hour (at least) every day when you can relax and engage in some ‘you time.’ This means you try to reflect on how you feel, and you try to work out any emotional conflicts or stress without the influence of another person. This will give you a sense of pride and autonomy, and it will offer a fresh perspective on issues you may experience.” —Noelle Foden-Vencil, Class of 2018
• “Moving-in day is a whirlwind of emotions and a little overwhelming. Take in each moment. But there are a lot activities going on through the day—be sure that you are mentally prepared to be in a new environment.” —Glenna Joyce, Class of 2016
• “Make time for yourself, particularly if you're an introverted person. If an event is optional, you don't have to go unless you really want to. If you're feeling drained, consider skipping it to spend time alone and recharge.” —Ruth Canavan, Class of 2018
• “When making friends and getting involved on campus, always keep an open mind and sample as many different activities as possible. It can be very enlightening if you lean into discomfort and test your boundaries. Of course this can be scary, but there are a multitude of resources and opportunities available on campus to help you attain personal growth.” —Maya Reyes, Class of 2017
• “Don't put too much pressure on yourself to feel fully adjusted right off the bat. It's OK to feel homesick or to have a hard time finding people you click with. If that isn't an issue for you, that's great! But if it is, it really will get a lot better with time, so try not to stress about it too much; just give it that time.” —Alexandra Dennis, Class of 2018
• “Use your resources! Create relationships with the counseling center, academic services, career development, and res life early on—don't just wait until you are in a crisis.” —Anna Kasok, Class of 2016
• “Getting along with your roommate may at times be hard. If there is a problem between you, try to deal with it together and proactively, rather than being passive-aggressive. It will help resolve issues far more quickly and save you both time and stress.” —Harry Risoleo, Class of 2018
• “Don’t be alarmed if the transition into college doesn't go as smoothly as you imagined. It’s OK to feel homesick, it’s OK if it takes a while to find good friends, and it’s OK if you don’t feel like you fit in right off the bat. Transitions take time. Remember that.” —Hannah Weaver, Class of 2016
• “Join clubs! They're a great way to meet people with at least one common interest, and they’ll put a few more social events on your calendar. I met many of my best friends through Skwizards and the Polo Club.” —Olivia Hayden, Class of 2017