By SABLE BRUNO
Staff Writer
Coming to Saint Rose made me think that I would have a new group of friends to call my own and that adjusting would be easy as pie; I was wrong. Being here makes it hard for someone like me to be social and happy. When I get here, everyone had their friends that they had met through earlier programs and little groups were formed. It has been hard for me this first semester because I feel that even for someone who is so social and open like I am, it is harder to make friends.
I am not saying that I need friends to get by in school, but having them around would not be that bad. I hate having to be in my room all the time and having people visit my roommate all the time. I am not sure how to describe the feeling, but I just want to feel included sometimes, you know? I am sure there are other freshmen that might feel the same way.
I try to involve myself in clubs that I like and relate to what I love to do. Maybe it is just me and I am not trying hard enough. Being here woke me up to some things, though. If you get the chance, try and get into school programs and clubs. Some people actually make friends from the school clubs they join. I see some students who try just as hard as I do and succeed.
Others get the feeling that they just want to transfer because they feel this type of setting is not for them. It is too bad I love my classes too much. I might just give it another try, but hey, not everyone can have and succeed at everything. It is a matter that you tried and if it did not work out for you, then there is always something else.
Sable — You make a good point here about what it’s like to join a new “culture.” Whether you’re studying abroad and experiecing culture shock, or going away to college for the first time, there’s that moment when things feel really low. I think we’ve all felt it, right? Like being the new kid. What I try to hold onto in times like that is the idea the pendulum swings back up. Things get better!
Try to find a social club that you would be interested in. When I was in college, I met great people through social clubs because I didn’t like my suite mates!
I had the same problem my freshman year. The funny thing is I was actually from Albany. The type who would be nervous but wasn’t really opposed to talking and getting to know people.
I think even though I graduated, this is one of those areas St. Rose needs to think about improving. While I agree, clubs do help, they’re not always the best option. My first year here I worked everyday in the afternoon and evening which is when all the clubs have their meetings.
I had to rely on meeting people in classes and just become comfortable with going places casually with people or alone to meet more students. First semester is always the worst. Second semester it gets better. Hang in there.
By sophmore year you’ll work the social scene like you never had an issue.