“It’s all happening.” Whether you’re familiar with the film “Almost Famous” or not. Those words mean something. Say it out loud a few times. See what I mean?
A few weeks ago, I entered my dorm on the third floor of Freeman. It was a muggy, overcast August day and I had just arrived after an hour spent with my stomach in knots and goosebumps on my legs as I anticipated my first day of college. The usual questions raced through my head: “Will I make friends?” “How will my parents feel without me around?” Even though I was nervous, I powered through and am not halfway through my third week here at Conn.
It’s all happening. I’ve already built the foundations for strong friendships, learned my way around campus and gotten used to the routine around here. Honora, who works in the cafeteria always greets me with a smile. Not to get all sentimental, but Conn is a special place.
Now, though I still can’t comprehend how some people think of the Yik Yaks they post and I have to admit the walk from Freeman to Harris is a little less than ideal, I’ve enjoyed my time here these past few weeks.
If there’s one thing I wish I could change it’s the fact that I don’t play a sport. Through orientation, and even now, it seems like those on the sports teams have it just a little bit easier. They come to school after a summer pre-season with a built in group of friends. However, with a sunny disposition, it’s easy to find great friends on campus. I was lucky enough to meet some really special people through my First Year Seminar and in my dorm.
They’re a great group of friends that I feel so blessed to have met so early on in my career at Conn. Most I met through my seminar, but others I met in other ways like spending time in Cro on Saturday nights or in my classes. I even got lucky enough to be great friends with my roommate!
The town of New London isn’t as bad as it’s made out to be. It’s kind of a quirky little place. I’ve enjoyed a lunch at Muddy Waters and even gone with my friend to the tattoo shop in town, and it’s only the third week. It’s a great little town with much more to offer than what first meets the eye. And we’re so lucky to live on the water. Hey, we’re the only NESCAC with an ocean view!
In all honesty, I love this school. I don’t want to sugarcoat anything; making the transition to college life has been hard and full of surprises, but I really do feel lucky to have the opportunity to grow into an adult here. I’ve already made friendships that I know will last a lifetime. Conn is a place full of support where each student is really valued and cared for and I am happy to be here. •
