Tyler Weiss, Blog Post 5, Group 3
As I return to Longwood after the Fall break, I find myself having similar experiences to Sarah’s experiences. The transition back to campus is both familiar and jarring, at home I’m surrounded by comfort and routine, while returning to my dorm means I must adjust back to the busy and often overwhelming environment of college life. Sarah’s struggle with her roommate and the dynamics of living together resonate with me as I navigate my own living situation. Like Sarah, I’m preparing for upcoming midterms and registering for next semester’s classes. This can be both exciting and stressful. While I feel fortunate to have a supportive academic environment at Longwood, there are still aspects of college life that still feel new and intimidating. Sarah’s experience at a large university highlights the differences in our educational settings. Longwood’s smaller campus fosters a close-knit community, which allows for more personalized interactions with professors and peers, contrasting with the vastness of Sarah’s school. As I reflect on my friendships back home, I recognize that some distance has formed. Though I cherish those connections, the demands of college life make it challenging to maintain the same level of communication. With two breaks approaching, I wonder how I will feel away from Longwood for an extended time. Stepping back into my home life is comforting but also brings a sense of uncertainty about returning to school life afterward. Ultimately, reflecting on these experiences helps me plan for the remainder of my freshman year, focusing on finding balance between home and school, nurturing friendships, and embracing the changes that lie ahead.
Dear Tyler,
I really enjoyed reading your reflection on returning to Longwood after Fall break. It’s clear that you’re going through a lot of the same feelings that Sarah experiences in her story. The transition back to campus can definitely be both comforting and overwhelming. I can relate to that sense of routine at home versus the busyness of college life. It must be challenging to adjust back to the fast pace after some time away.
Your connection to Sarah’s struggles with her roommate really resonates. Living with someone can be tough, especially when both of you are trying to navigate your own schedules and habits. I would love to know if you found any strategies that help you both get along better? I think sharing those experiences could be helpful for others who are dealing with similar situations.
I think it’s great that you’re preparing for midterms and class registration, those can be stressful and I wish you all the best. Your comparison of Longwood’s close knit community to the larger university environment is really insightful. It’s wonderful to hear how that personal touch makes a difference in your experience. Do you have any specific examples that have stood out to you? I think highlighting those moments could show how supportive Longwood university is.
I understand your feelings about friendships back home too. It’s tough to keep in touch with everyone when you’re busy with college life. I am trying to figure out a plan to stay in touch with friends back home because they also have their things going on. With the upcoming break, I’m curious to hear how you plan to use that time. Will you focus on resting, or do you have any specific activities in mind? I’m excited to see how you continue to find that balance between home and school. Hope you have a great thanksgiving break!!