Lake County students share experiences during first year of college
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – In May of 2017, about 114 Lake County High School seniors planned to attend institutions of higher learning to gain the much sought-after “college experience.”
These students have now completed their first semester in college and they’ve learned many lessons about what college truly is and how to succeed.
Lake County students Bryan Burkdoll, SammyJo Brassfield and Jordan Zabek shared some of the lessons they learned in their first semester of college.
One of the first things incoming freshmen learn is the importance of responsibility, which accounts for a great deal of one’s success, both in academics and in the dorm setting.
“Living with a roommate is a big change, you have to be more aware of everything you’re doing,” said Ethan Plettinck, a freshman at Baylor University. “There is really no one else to rely on besides yourself, in a way it's like a job. Feed yourself, clean your room and, of course, prepare for school.”
Plettinck has learned the important lesson that he is truly the only one responsible for his success and while at college he can only rely on himself.
Food is another important part of one’s college experience.
According to Middletown Christian School graduate Bryan Burkdoll, “The (dorm) food is good but it gets repetitive very quickly.”
Burkdoll, a mechanical engineering major and a freshman at LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas, has realized that one way to combat the monotony of cafeteria food is to have a stash of snacks in your dorm.
Sonoma State student Sammy Jo Brassfield suggested, “Always have snacks on hand, it gives you something to do while you work, keeps you awake, and then you don’t have to go anywhere.”
Snacks such as macaroni and cheese, Hot Pockets or the well-loved Top Ramen are perfect for a student tired of eating the same type of pizza for 11 days straight when studying for finals.
Of course, where you sleep and what you eat is only a fraction of the college experience.
Professors greatly affect the quality of one’s education and academic life. According to many students, communication is key.
“My professors … have been really helpful and understanding. As long as you communicate and make yourself known to the professor, they will notice your efforts and do their best to help you succeed,” said Jordan Zabek, a graduate of Clear Lake High School who attends San Francisco State University.
Brandon Clemons is a freshman at Baylor University who has also had the privilege of being taught by great professors.
“The word that comes to mind when talking about my professors is approachable. They do a really good job at being available to see (students) outside of class, and communicating to us about changes that will occur in the learning environment.” Clemons said.
One of the most difficult parts of being a college student is moving away from home.
Many students travel to the other side of the country to seek out their education. In situations such as these, it is important to rely on one’s resources and connections.
“One of the key ways to deal with the challenge of living away from home is realizing that you’re not alone in your isolation,” said Baylor freshman Noah Dellinger. "We’re gathered in a community in which everyone starts alone. … It’s crucial to reach out to others. Even if they don’t seem like they’re alone, talk to them. More than likely they feel the same as you.”
A student's first semester in college is a combination of excitement and terror, it’s a leap of faith that requires only the best of what one can offer.
Relying on loved ones back home and acting on the advice of others who have gone before is one of the simplest ways to ensure a successful college career.
Samuel Toback is from Middletown, where he attended Middletown Christian School. He is a journalism student at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.