College Norms - Arrival on Campus

Hi there!
Welcome to the University. My name's Calvin and I'm glad you'll be with me and my friends throughout the academic year.

I know how anxious you must be to begin your new life as a college student. you've probably heard a lot about the fun and excitement of what college life is all about - you know...parties, dates, freedom. And, I am sure you can't wait to break away and just do it!

But before you do, I'd like to share with you some of my experiences of what college life is really all about. Sure, there are parties, dates, and a whole lot of freedom. But for me, being in college means more than just having a good time.

Now I don't mean to sound like college is all work and no play. I'm not one of those academic types just out for the good grades. Believe me, I've enjoyed being a college student, especially having the opportunity to choose my own courses at the times I desire.

More importantly though, I love college because of the opportunity it's given me to gain confidence and to discover who I am independently of my parents and past relationships. I needed to get away from my high school buddies and start life anew.

When I first arrived at college, however, I was like most freshmen. I was feeling...

like a small fish in a big pond. There were so many faces all around me. Even though a number of kids from my high school entered the same year I did. I never saw them during my entire freshman year.

Back then, this place seemed so huge.

Don't get me wrong. I had a fun-tastice freshman year. But after making all sorts of personal, social and academic adjustments, I was beginning to feel a little new-rotic.