Reading the book Freshman Year by Sarah Mai has definitely made me think about my very own college experiences and how alike mine and Sarah’s are. Similar to Sarah, I have continued to face many challenges and life shifts during my first semester here at Longwood. Reading how she goes through her classes, to making new friends, and even to the adjustment of living with a roommate has helped me think about my personal journey so far.

     One part from the book that reflected with me was attempting to manage the stress of everything happening at once. From classes, to different social events and clubs, to even time spent by myself. It takes a lot to juggle all of it because it is still so new. Being at Longwood, I have also had to work on “work life balance” as they say.  It is difficult trying to pick between hanging out with friends from the hallway or studying for that test you have tomorrow. There have been times that assignments from my classes have piled up and it just feels like I do not have enough time to get everything done. Similar to Sarah, I have had to maneuver being more organized and having more time management and knowing when to do assignments.

     As the semester comes to a close in a few months, I imagine looking forward to Christmas and the holidays. Being able to go home for winter break helps to bring me a lot of personal relief and it helps to get me excited to see family. However, I can also understand Sarah’s point of view because she feels very uneasy about returning home after how much has changed in her life since being at college. Being here at Longwood has definitely made me a more independent person and I can understand why she believes that home might not have that same magic as when we were kids. Now, something to keep in mind is that my experience here at Longwood might be different than Sarah’s because I am part of a smaller university. 

     In the book, the college also seemed to be very huge and overwhelming to her. Here at Longwood, it is easy to meet new people and I just feel like I am more part of a community. The Professors are always willing to help and the campus helps Longwood feel more personal to me. I think that being at a smaller school has helped me adjust more smoothly into college life unlike a larger university might make me feel. 

     In conclusion, reading the book about Sarah’s freshman semester has helped me realize that many students go through similar situations and feelings. While some specifics may be different between us, the feeling of uncertainty and independence seems very universal. I am excited for the upcoming break this upcoming December and to see how far I can grow here between now and then.