By Kailyn Jennings
Contributing Writer
After four weeks of classes, the honeymoon phase has worn off for many freshmen.
This is the time when homesickness sets in and freshmen are nostalgic for their friends at home. Here at Bonaventure, many people, including upperclassmen, are willing to help freshmen get used to this culture shock phase and develop a love of St. Bonaventure University.
“First off, don’t feel like you’re the only one going through homesickness, a breakup or a change of friends,” junior marketing major Jen Hassen said.
Bonaventure offers a variety of resources to help freshmen. Resident assistants are a great place to start. Additionally, students can take advantage of the Health and Wellness Center, Campus Ministries, the Career and Professional Readiness Center and other services to make your adjustment easier.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. The Bonaventure community is more than willing to guide you and help you to feel right at home.
Part of that homey feeling develops once you get involved on campus. While there are many great clubs and organizations available on campus, Hassen advises freshmen not to spread themselves too thin too soon.
“Don’t get too involved quite yet,” she said.
According to Hassen, freshmen should take it slow, test the waters and ask lots of questions so they know what they’re committing to.
That being said, know that sometimes the unexpected is what brings happiness.
“Be open to new experiences and don’t forget to take advantage of the University 101 opportunities at Bona’s,” Hassen said.
Divya Gupta, a junior biology major, also offered a few tips to help ease the transition from high school to college and balancing classwork and social life.
“Have fun, but study hard,” Gupta said. “Make friends, but avoid drama. And definitely don’t procrastinate.”
According to Gupta, college is supposed to be fun, but students can’t forget that it is also meant to prepare you for your future. Freshmen should do the best they can now to help themselves reach their goals later on.
Danielle Hutchings, a junior marketing major, said the best thing freshmen can do is avoid going home too soon. Going home takes you away from potential friends and opportunities. You miss out on experiences that don’t come around again.
“You need to get adjusted first,” Hutchings said. “So get involved on campus and find something that you like – sports, clubs or even a job. Be social and make it to basketball games.”
Bona’s is your new home, so make yourself comfortable and surround yourself with what you love. The next four years fly by. Make the most of them.
