Dear Freshman Me

• By: Farah Samy – News Editor

Dear Freshman me,

As I sit here in the same blue chair at the same white desk in our room, both of which have seen countless late- night (or early morning) meltdowns over assignments, professors, and friendships, I can’t help but think that after four-and-a-half years at this university, these two—our desk and that now creaky-as-ever chair—are the only constants in our life. I’m aware that this is a random start to a letter, but then again, you’ve always been a bit random yourself. So, maybe they’re not the only constants after all. Still, I hope the sentiment lands how I mean it to.

You’re a graduating senior now, possibly writing one of your last pieces for The Caravan—a place you once despised but now return to for comfort. Maybe it’s because the newsroom serves as a reminder that if you survived The Caravan as a reporter, you can survive anything (Yes, we’re still dramatic like that, and sorry Caravan team, I still love you).

Trying to find all the right things to tell you feels almost impossible because, in many ways, I’m feeling just as you are right now.

“With all my best friends having graduated, I stand in my final semester, again, searching for a familiar face to sit with, and a sense of belonging. I, too, am grappling with uncertainty about the future, although for different reasons.”

However, unlike you, I’ve come to terms with myself a bit more. I’m filled with a little less self- doubt and a stronger sense of purpose, and although I can’t go back and help you, in this space where words feel like my only means of reaching you, let me offer you some (would’ve been useful) advice.

When it comes to friendships, which I know mean everything to you right now, I want you to try to remember that you don’t need a million friends to belong. Remember to never let go of your values for the sake of fitting in, and most importantly, try to understand that not all relationships have to be deep. Trust me, this will save you a lot of heartbreak. Life is already full of challenges, so try to save yourself from this one.

When it comes to academia, remember to breathe. After your first semester, your sense of academic validation will soar, this will help you push yourself, constantly striving for more, but with that comes immense pressure, which you will subject yourself to. When that happens, remember to breathe. Try (emphasis on try) to remember that grades do not define your worth; You are more than a letter or a number someone deemed you worthy of. It’s a hard ask, we’re still struggling now, but perhaps I can give you the reminder no one gave me.

Finally, it’s very easy to lose focus during the whirlwind of university life. Balancing a social life, with family and friends, and academics makes it very easy to lose sight of the priority that is your well-being. Spoiler alert: you lose sight of this multiple times, and it’s really hard to get out of it, but you always do. When it all becomes too much, keep these three reminders in mind. Say them to yourself in the morning, record them, and hear them like a daily ritual, whatever, but remember:

1. The grass is greener where you water it.

2. Everything happens for a reason.

3. Setting boundaries defines what you accept, it’s not being uptight. (How can others respect you if you don’t respect yourself?)

I know this may all seem overwhelming, and the truth is, I can’t go back and save you the hassle of learning this the hard way. University, and life, are overwhelming, but so rewarding, too.

Try to enjoy the ride, even when it’s bumpy.