So, I survived my first week of college! Yes, I know, the point is kind of redundant seeing as I’ve made a new post. And yes, the first week is always the easiest. Yes of course, it is also mostly introduction exercises. But alas, it’s worth mentioning. Especially since I’ve decided that it’s going to be my subject for this week’s blog post. For the classes I attended this week we participated in name games and answering questions about ourselves.  

The dreaded, awful, awkward introduction exercises. The raving anxiety of the night before the first day of school in preparation for this activity was excruciating. But, honestly? It wasn’t that bad… for the first time, I can even say they were HELPFUL. Imagine that! The fresh start program provides a successful format in easing students into getting to know each other without too much pressure.

At the end of the day, even if we only consider the effect of introduction exercises in the most superficial way the outcome is still positive. The acquaintances, friends, advisors, and teachers (which still feels kind of backwards to say or even think) all serve as a basic accountability partners. They will care about absences, tardies, etc., but in a more positive and understanding way. And it’s my pan to utilize this fact to better my attendance.

How will knowing peers affect the classes we attend? Will having friends be a positive or a negative?

So when you add someone who is embarrassingly shy, hates sharing, and knows absolutely nobody in the class you get someone who really appreciates that this week equaled success. Peers, teachers, random strangers, and oddly enough the actually architecture of the campus were incredibly friendly and welcoming.