By: Alexis Stafford, AUMnibus editor & webmaster
Starting a new semester can be exciting yet daunting, especially for incoming freshmen. As I am now a senior, I have done a lot of reflecting on my experience these last three years.
First, I want to extend a few words of encouragement to anyone who may be dealing with the agony of first-week jitters. I feel everyone often forgets that you are not the only one who is nervous. Everyone around you has to adjust to a new schedule, environment and sense of community. Even if you think other people are taking on this new change with grace, they are probably feeling the overwhelming range of emotions you eventually will overcome. Even though I have become well-acquainted with this campus and have established my role within it, I still struggle with the nerves associated with going back to school. You are not alone in feeling the stress that comes with change.
The wonderful thing about AUM that new students will eventually discover over time is that the professors want you to succeed. If you ever need clarification on an assignment or have any concerns about the class, just ask them; not only will it allow you to make a good impression and show that you are taking your education seriously, but it will help ease any worries that you may have by opening up communication with your professors. At the end of the day, your education is an investment in your future. Contacting your professors or even fellow peers conveys to other people that you are persistent, which is a crucial quality to have in order to succeed academically.
Lastly, it is important to get involved within your department as early as possible. Whether this is by joining clubs, attending events or even asking about potential research opportunities, it is beneficial for everyone to take advantage of these possibilities that can open up doors for you post-graduation. Unfortunately, an influx of students are under the impression that you cannot get involved within your field until your junior year, which is typically when internships are sought out. While it may seem like you do not have many options to gain experience within your field until you are an upperclassman, you may find there are more chances than you might expect by simply asking around.
I started working within The Aumibus at the start of my sophomore year as the social media coordinator; I was then promoted to editor once I began my junior year. I would have never known about working on the editorial staff if I had not pursued ways to partake in my future career. This experience has taught me so many valuable lessons as well as boosted my confidence that I have chosen the right field. I sincerely hope everyone can obtain peace of mind as their academic journey continues.
