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Dear First-Gen Trailblazer...

By Yanelli Sandoval Silva

Class of 2026, Rutgers Business School, Member of the Honors College

Congratulations on embarking on this new journey! As a fellow first-generation student, the first in my family to go to college, I understand the mix of excitement and uncertainty that comes with stepping onto a college campus for the first time.

Be proud of all the success in high school, and the opportunities you will get in college. You are paving the way for future generations and that is not a task to take lightly. But fear not, because I'm here to share some tips and encouragement to help you thrive during your college years.

This is me, graduating from high school in New York State—my mom did cry!

Reminder: You are not alone. 

It's easy to feel isolated in a sea of unfamiliar faces, but trust me when I say that there are others just like you, grappling with the same challenges and triumphs. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable assets, so don't hesitate to connect with other first-gen students and build a support system together. At first, it may feel like everyone is ten steps ahead of you. I remember struggling to fill out my FAFSA since I had to input every value of my mother's taxes, meanwhile, those around me had their parents do it for them. It can feel overwhelming, and draining, but it made me stronger and hungrier.

Speaking of support systems, it's essential to take advantage of the resources available to you. Whether it's a food pantry to help alleviate financial strain or programs offering scholarships and academic assistance such as Thrive SSS/EOF/ANY/INROADS, these resources are here to empower you on your journey. Don't be afraid to seek help when you need it—asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

Here I am with my friends, who are feeding me pizza. Forever grateful for them!

Reminder: Get Involved!

The connections you make during your college years can open doors to exciting opportunities and mentorship. Check out the GetInvolved Page for organizations in your career field and cultural background! Attend networking events, join student organizations related to your interests, and don't underestimate the power of reaching out to professors and professionals in your field. You'd be amazed at how willing people are to offer guidance and support to motivated students like yourself. The Honors College provides a plethora of opportunities for engagement. Seize these chances, particularly with programs like Generation HC, designed to support first-generation college students. Participating in this program not only made the vast expanse of Rutgers feel more intimate but also resulted in invaluable connections. Through Gen HC, I not only found my closest friend but also established a strong support network and gained an exceptional mentor. Rather than navigating college solo, it felt like we were all united in this journey together.

As you navigate your first semester, consider staying on campus during weekends instead of heading home. This time is valuable for immersing yourself in campus life, attending events, and getting to know your surroundings. Plus, staying connected with your college community can help ease feelings of homesickness and build a sense of belonging.

When it comes to clubs and organizations, don't be afraid to explore your interests and try new things. Hint: Every organization has an Instagram and is usually at the annual Involvement Fair (you get a bunch of free merch—even Wawa is there). Attend events for various clubs, and if something sparks your curiosity, dive in and see where it takes you. Remember, college is about more than just academics—it's also about discovering your passions, building relationships, and growing as a person.

I am part of the Association of Latino Professionals for America. Here, we are pictured at the national convention in Texas where we were awarded Northeast Chapter of the Year!

Reminder: Choose yourself first.

Don't forget to prioritize self-care along the way. College can be demanding, both academically and personally, so it's crucial to take time for yourself. Whether it's practicing mindfulness, staying active, or simply indulging in your favorite hobbies, make self-care a priority in your daily routine.

This is my beautiful mother. With just the two of us, she is the main reason I have made it this far.

To my fellow first-gen students, I want to leave you with this: You are capable of achieving great things, and you belong here just as much as anyone else. We were not supposed to make it this far, to overcome the set of adversities placed in our path—yet we made it here. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes (even the small ones), and never forget how far you've come. Your journey is just beginning, and I can't wait to see all that you'll accomplish! :)

With warmest wishes and unwavering support,

Yanelli Sandoval Silva

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Honors College Affinity Groups—A Place to Connect

By Bianca Caproni

Class of 2024, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College

While working as a Resident Assistant, I walk through the Honors College and often see our lounges full with groups of students casually chatting with each other.

However, for students with underrepresented identities, finding a ‘group’ to be a part of here at Rutgers or knowing where to look for others with shared experiences can be hard. 

Over the last few years, I’ve helped to develop this community through the Honors College’s Affinity Groups, where we strive to create diverse and inclusive spaces for students who identify as Asian, Black, Latinx, LGBTQ+, and international. Our groups provide affirming communities where students can foster connections and enhance their sense of belonging. You can see the Affinity Group student leaders here in this photo with me!

College can be an especially exciting (and sometimes scary) time for understanding one’s identity.

Luckily, I also found the Organization of Luso-Americans and Gen HC, the Honors College’s first-generation college student support program. Involvement in groups like these has been important for me to connect with other students.

As an affinity lead, I found our meeting space to be a time for crucial conversations and check-ins, both from me to student members and from students to other students. The day-to-day in college can be pretty hectic, and there are some days when you don’t get the chance to have an intentional interaction with your peers. However, the Affinity Group meeting space is meant to offer this opportunity in students’ busy schedules. The Honors College and its Affinity Groups are a home base for students to begin exploring the many opportunities at their fingertips, with peers and mentors in these spaces supporting them along their journeys. 

What I’ve found most exciting about being a student leader is to see new students grow from shy, uncertain first-years to confident student leaders. Some of my own mentees, residents, and students have gone on to lead Affinity Groups or other groups around campus, and it is so exciting to see them put in the work of building community here at the Honors College and Rutgers at large. 

Learn more about the Honors College Affinity Groups on our website.

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Kickin’ Off My Boots—My Journey from Texas to the Honors College 

By Jasmine Tbaba

Class of 2024, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College

Through all of the chaos and uncertainty of the college application process, the one thing I was sure of was: I wanted to go out of state.

I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and was ready for something completely new. For me, Rutgers was just that! When Move-In Day approached, my family rented a minivan, packed up my life, and set off across the country. As the landscape slowly changed from the prairies of north Texas to the lush mountains of Tennessee, the reality of my decision truly sunk in. Each passing mile was one mile farther away from home. 

Though fear was present in the back of my mind, the excitement and enthusiasm of starting a new chapter in my life overpowered it. This excitement grew when Welcome Days festivities began. I was met with friendly faces and began connecting with the community that would prove to be transformative in my life over the next four years. My first month at the Honors College was a whirlwind of events, meeting new people, and exploring new places. As an out-of-state student, I was eager to make the most of my experience and jumped in head first. 

My time at Rutgers has been incredible and has surpassed every expectation I had coming into college. However, moving across the country on your own can be hard, and I inevitably faced some challenges. I was in an unfamiliar place that was wildly different from the one I grew up in. There were times I felt lost, alone, and doubted my decision. It was in these moments that the support of the Honors College was most critical. On the holiday weekends when my in-state friends went home and I couldn’t, the Faculty Fellows remained in the building so there were still familiar faces passing by while I was studying or doing laundry. When I needed someone to talk to, my Changemaking Mentor had drop-in hours open for me. When I wanted to explore, my friends in the HC were always down for a day trip to New York City. The HC community was integral to me finding my footing at Rutgers, and continues to be a very important part of my college experience. 

Heading into my last semester, I am beginning to reflect on my experience at Rutgers and the HC. Deciding to go to college so far away from home was the biggest decision I’ve made in my life and it has shaped me in unimaginable ways. I have grown immensely as not just an academic and a professional, but as a human. The Honors College has given me a community within the vastness of Rutgers University and the entire Northeast. If I could say anything to the girl looking out of the window in the back of a minivan in the middle of Tennessee: get ready for the wildest, most challenging, yet fulfilling adventure of your life.

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Ciao, Italia! – Culture, Language, and Learning through Study Abroad

By Matthew Esaia

Class of 2026, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College

Looking up at one of the steepest inclines I have ever encountered, I wondered if my legs were up to the climb ahead.

Reaching the top, I looked down at one of the most beautiful sights: the bluest water, surrounded by shallow beaches, full of happy visitors. Breathing in the crisp mountain air, I looked around and wondered how I was so lucky to be in this place…Italy! Ever since I can remember, I have dreamed of going to the country of my ancestors. Making that dream come true while a part of the Honors College was something I will never forget.

Through the RU in Rome study abroad program, I spent the entire month of July studying in Rome and exploring the Italian countryside. Some of the most memorable moments include spending five frenzied hours competing Master-Chef-style to prepare an authentic Italian feast, discovering Italy’s best gelato, watching the parade to celebrate the feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, taking in a Formula E race at Rome's Circuito Cittadino dell'EUR, and interviewing a local bar owner about the Italian aperitivo.

This study abroad experience gave me the opportunity to immerse myself in the language and culture of Italy, living among the locals and learning how to prepare some delicious Italian foods, while growing stronger in my use and understanding of the Italian language. It was interesting to see how different the transportation in Italy is compared to the suburb where I live. A majority of travel is walking or catching the train. Their train system is so sophisticated and runs seamlessly, making it easy to get where you need to go with little effort.

One of my favorite things to do while on this trip was converse with the locals. I put my language skills to the test (as best I could) and heard some pretty cool stories in the process. It can be intimidating to practice a foreign language in its native country, but I was so pleased to find that the Italian locals were extremely welcoming and supportive as we improved our skills.

I highly recommend participating in a study abroad program at Rutgers. It is a chance to learn a lot, meet new people, and have some unforgettable experiences. Fai buon viaggio!

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Check Out the Makerspace at the HC!

By Trisha Yu

Class of 2027, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College

As someone who always enjoyed the act of creating, I knew that I wanted to continue and expand my artistic hobbies in college.

At home, I spend my free time drawing, creating figurines out of polymer clay, or making stuffed animals. Knowing that it would be difficult to move all of the craft supplies I use into my dorm, much less find an oven to bake clay in, I decided on something different. 

Generally, the final pieces I create are not solely made out of clay; painting and sewn parts make up a large part of the finished product. Because of that, I wanted a way to create many copies of something I sculpted, while customizing each piece differently from the same base. This could be done with a design created digitally. 

I already had ideas of exploring 3D printing outside the classroom, but I did not want to make the relatively large purchase of an entire machine that had the possibility of only being used once or twice at home. Fortunately, I learned about the HC Makerspace before I moved in last fall and was eager to try using it. 

After doing some research, I bought a 3D sculpting app on my iPad and began to create some test designs. Honestly, creating a design I was satisfied with was more difficult than waiting for it to be printed out. After that, I could easily use the sandpaper in the room to refine the prints. The only thing I found lacking was paint to customize my printed bases, but I understand why that would not be regularly available because of the mess it could make. Regardless, I am proud of the animal figurine that was my final product (see picture). 

Additionally, the Makerspace gave me the ability to continue creating plushies. I actually brought some sewing materials from home and began hand sewing a few new projects, including the cube and pyramid plushies (see picture), but realized that I completely forgot to bring stuffing. Thankfully, there was plenty of stuffing in the Makerspace, as well as other sewing materials. Although I have not used the sewing machine yet, I have future project ideas in mind which could benefit from my use of it. 

Having come from a school district that taught us the basics of 3D printing in middle school, I already had some idea of how I would use the Makerspace. Not everyone may have had an opportunity to use a 3D printer or sewing machine before, but there are students there to teach you how to use the equipment. 

HC students have the opportunity to make ideas come to life. Even if you don’t consider yourself a creative person, finding a free 3D print file or sticker design online and seeing it become a reality in a few hours is a unique feeling hard to find elsewhere. 

The next time you find yourself with some spare time on the weekdays, why not explore a new form of creativity at the HC Makerspace? 

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Navigating the HC as a Pharmacy Student

By Danielle Murat

Class of 2028, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Member of the Honors College

Transitioning to college life as a first-year student, I found myself unsure of how to balance both the requirements of the Honors College and the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy.

Now, as a sophomore, I am happy to report that not only are balancing the requirements feasible, but they also have allowed me to enhance my education and explore my interests outside the world of pharmacy and STEM. 

To fulfill my Honors College credit requirement, I took Honors sections of general education classes, such as chemistry, biology, and college writing; in doing so, I was able to simultaneously complete requirements for both schools. 

Aside from fulfilling the requirements, taking the Honors sections of prerequisite pharmacy courses helped to enhance my college education. Coming from a small high school, I truly appreciate the intimate learning environment provided through Honors courses. Because of the smaller classroom size, I was able to develop personal relationships with my professors, receive 1:1 assistance, and participate in hands-on learning with other Honors College students. The unique learning environment provided by these courses ultimately contributed to my success.

Many Honors College courses count as pharmacy electives, fulfilling requirements for both a pharmacy and Honors College student. In the fall, I took an Interdisciplinary Honors Seminar called “Reading in Slow Motion,” which was one of my favorite courses to date. In this class, I was able to take a break from my rigorous STEM work and closely analyze literature, allowing me to pursue my passion for fictional reading. I immersed myself in engaging discussions and worked collaboratively with other Honors College students to understand the meaning of the novel on a deeper level and apply that understanding to the world around us. By taking an Interdisciplinary Honors Seminar, not only was I completing stepping stones on my way to my PharmD, but I was also exploring my interests across disciplines with students from many different academic backgrounds.

Being an Honors College student enhances my pharmacy education. Honors coursework has helped me engage in a unique, intimate learning environment while expanding my passions beyond pharmacy requirements. These experiences have allowed for a seamless interdisciplinary experience that has been vital to my education and success at Rutgers University.

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Experiencing the Magic of Ireland

By Smruthi Sathya

Class of 2025, Rutgers Business School, Member of the Honors College

Last spring, I had the opportunity to take the embedded study abroad "To Be a Pilgrim" Interdisciplinary Honors Seminar and travel to Ireland alongside Honors College and SAS Honors Program students.

In this course, we immersed ourselves in Irish traditions and walked historic pilgrim paths. While I had always planned to study abroad in college, I did not expect that a ten day trip would change so much about the way I viewed the world.

During the semester, we learned about the importance of setting a goal or intention prior to embarking on a pilgrimage. I often feel like my brain is running a marathon, so I decided to set my intention to live more in the present. On our first walk in Glendalough, my new perspective helped me discover new shades of green. With sheep running in the distance and tall trees soaring above, my first glimpse of Ireland was a chapter out of a fairytale. Leaving the past behind and forgetting the future to come, I stayed with the sheep in that moment and etched the new shade of green into my memory.

While walking these pilgrimages, I helped forge blossoming friendships into a newfound family. On our 25 mile pilgrim walk to Croagh Patrick, our group sang classic 2010 throwbacks one after another, shared our favorite college memories, and laughed until our laughter echoed off of the mountains that surrounded us. Constant curiosity to learn more about the significance of the various pilgrim paths, coupled with a revived purpose, made this trip a turning point in my life.

More than anything else, the people I met on this trip truly made it an unforgettable experience. From waiters at restaurants to our host’s grandmotherly love, my classmates and I shared stories, customs, and traditions with everyone we met. During our stay in Galway, we learned an Irish step dance snippet from a professional Riverdancer and even learned a traditional broom dance! And I will never forget my first conversation with an Irish native on the train to Wicklow who said that the weather cleared up because we brought the sunshine with us.

By the end of the trip, I had never felt more at peace. With the lessons I learned from the people I met and the reflections I made during our pilgrimages, I was able to view my life through a new lens and envision a future that stretched outside of the confines I had previously set for myself. I will always be grateful to the Honors College for allowing me to embark on this physical and mental journey and for giving me some of my favorite college memories.

There was something about this trip that felt fantastical—in the way the trees breathed and the sunsets sang. Maybe it was a result of the tired haze from all our pilgrimages, or maybe it was the magic of Ireland.

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Research that Resonates

By Zoe Reich

Class of 2024, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College and Douglass Residential College

As a child, I was fascinated by the outdoors.

My mind grew fantastic adventures from fallen seeds on the ground. And fear never stopped me from crossing the street or closely investigating the dirt peering through the grass. In hindsight, I see myself as undeniably lucky. I had the opportunity to further diversify my microbiome, something I learned greatly about during my time working in the Dominguez-Bello lab for the Aresty Summer Science Program. Every human has a microbiome; it is the collection of microbial cells, bacteria most notably, that populate a certain area. Although these microbes are incredibly tiny, they play a giant role in everyday health for human beings. They can create infections, which most people are familiar with. But they can also support human health through helping digest certain food products that humans can’t. In other words, microbes are not black and white; each interaction they have with humans is different. This role of microbes was greatly emphasized in my lab as my professor researches how the human microbiome develops and how urbanization impacts the human microbiome.

I am lucky to work in the Dominguez-Bello lab because the research resonates with me. There is intrinsic motivation for me to absorb as much information as possible. I feel empowered by the opportunity to explore ways to protect people against the health problems that are so prevalent in our world today. As an optimist, I wholeheartedly believe that we all have the opportunity to change the course of human health.

Before college, I was not super familiar with research. I heard through the mouths of those around me; my cousin whom I adored, who also attended Rutgers, would tell me about the research she was doing. As the time of choosing colleges neared, I had a call with one of the Rutgers Honors College students who told me about Aresty, Rutgers’ Research Center. After the call, I decided that I would be doing the Aresty Summer Science Program the summer before my Sophomore year. I went through the process of applying to the program in January of the following year and ended up getting into the Dominguez-Bello lab.

Through the Aresty Summer Science Program, I was able to research over the summer. I did a blend of in-person and remote tasks for the Dominguez-Bello lab. Researching gave me an opportunity to develop the skills that had mystified me during my biology classes. I was awed by how I could now implement concepts that previously seemed so abstract. My heart and mind were both simultaneously falling in love with the opportunity to better understand these “invisible processes” and use them to improve human health. With the skills that I developed in the Honors College mission course, the Forum, creating a literature review to build my foundation of comprehension was straightforward. I could see the principles that the Honors College fosters growing within myself as I pursued the start of a career that I could truly find fulfilling.

The Aresty Summer Science Program gave me insight on what life looks like as a full time researcher. This real life experience combined with learning from the Rutgers Library Workshops and hearing from graduates about their career helped me begin cementing what I want in the future. I could see my curiosity propelling me to gain all the knowledge that fulfilled my purpose of creating solutions for health related issues. This road can lead to a career in medicine, academia, and industry. Although I do not know which path I am exactly going to take, I am certain that I have a strong framework to find the ideal conditions for me to be passionate and happy in a career with biology research.

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International Students: A Guide to Surviving and Thriving in Your Freshman Year

By Tanvi Dinesh

Class of 2023, Rutgers Business School, Member of the Honors College

Moving to college was a very big step for me, as I imagine it is for anyone.

However, being an international student from India definitely added another layer of uncertainty and confusion. I was really excited to start college but I was quite oblivious to the cultural differences and academic expectations at Rutgers. My first semester I had to navigate a college course schedule, new friendships, and being away from home for the first time. It was a whirlwind of excitement and apprehension. But I survived, with a little help from some amazing people at the Honors College and beyond. Here are some ways I made Rutgers feel like my home away from home! 

1. International Student Community

As an international student it is important to create a strong support system at college. Thankfully, Rutgers has tons of resources that can help. My freshman year I was extremely lucky to have the support of my mentor in residence and friends at the HC. I also found that it was extremely helpful to talk to other international students, as they were going through a similar transition. I made sure to go to events such as Friendship Fridays with Rutgers Global and chose to become an international student orientation leader to continue to meet and help other international students. Finally, whether you need help with immigration forms, on/off- campus jobs, or even just questions about your taxes, Rutgers Global-International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)  is always there to help.

2. Honors College Community

My freshman year at the Honors College allowed me to meet some exceptional people and exposed me to an array of opportunities. Take advantage of the amazing and diverse community around you and the amazing resources you have access to. The Honors College Advisors helped me decide on a minor and create a four year plan that has helped me through my time at Rutgers. Furthermore, my favorite HC experience was participating in the HC Ally mentoring program, and I would recommend you apply to be a mentee your freshman year. I also really enjoyed working on the residence hall association team and creating fun events throughout the year.

3. Exploring Clubs on Campus

Whether you’re a freshman or a senior it is never too late to join a club. Just go on the getINVOLVED website for Rutgers and explore numerous clubs and events happening on campus every day! Personally, I love to attend observing nights at the Rutgers Astronomical Society and meet fellow students in my major at the Business Information Technology Society.

4. Getting in the School Spirit

After having my freshman and sophomore years cut short by the pandemic, I was set on making the most of my junior and senior years. Rutgers sports games have really helped me find my school spirit. Since returning to campus, I have gone to every football and basketball game, and I cannot recommend it enough! Coming from India, I didn’t even know how American football was played but over the years I have gotten to learn more about it and I love watching football now. Doesn't matter if we win or lose; I have a great time cheering for Rutgers and watching our teams face off against other universities. 

5. Staying Active on Campus

While staying on top of your school work is extremely important, I hope you will take the time to go outdoors and stay active during the semester! I personally believe that exercising helps me reflect and stay motivated to continue working hard in my classes. I recommend rock climbing at the College Avenue gym and swimming at Sonny Werblin Recreation Center. When the weather is nice, I also really enjoy hiking at the Livingston Preserve to get some fresh air and see some wildlife. If you’re more interested in team sports you can always join an Intramural Sports team and make new friends who enjoy playing the same sport as you!

6. Finding an On-Campus Job

A campus job allows you to learn new skills and get real world job experience. Most student jobs are quite flexible and you get to decide which shifts align with your class schedule. Through my campus job, I have improved my communication skills and become a better team player. This job gave me insight into the culture at American workplaces and gave me the confidence to interview for internships my junior year. I would recommend searching for student jobs on Handshake and the Rutgers Job Board.

7. Finding an Internship

Internships are a great way to get work experience and explore industries you might be interested in. Many companies recruit for summer internships starting as early as September of the previous year. So depending on which industry you want to work in, start exploring companies and programs early. I would suggest you focus your search on roles that would be a good fit for your skills and tailor your resume to showcase all your knowledge and experiences. Finally, it is important to network with others in your industry. Do not be afraid to talk to your professors or join clubs to get assistance. You can also reach out to our Dean of Professional Development at the HC, as well as Rutgers Career Services, which has numerous resources and a dedicated team of advisors to help students put their best foot forward in the job market.

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Two Student Perspectives on Being Honors College & Douglass Women

Co-Written by Zoe Reich and Esha Paghdal 

Class of 2024, School of Arts and Sciences, Members of the Honors College and Douglass Residential College

Zoe’s First-Year Experience

Being a freshman is challenging. 

You are immersed in another world that you are figuring out with the help of your loved ones. As you make new friends and navigate college, you gain a sense of independence.

I am a member of both the Honors College and the Douglass Residential College, which together provide unique access to creative, informative, and social experiences. Most importantly, the students you meet here will be your friends. I met Esha last semester when we were both enrolled in the same Douglass Knowledge and Power mission course and the creative writing course sections. We realized that we are both Honors College students studying biological sciences and taking classes in English coincidentally! 

In my first year, I have learned how both Douglass and the Honors College create butterfly effects, with individual interactions and requirements that amount to an enriching, interdisciplinary college experience. “Requirements” are really opportunities for me to be actively curious and unearth my true purpose. I realized my purpose as someone passionate about women’s health by means of writing essays for the Forum (the Honors College mission course) about pregnancy, and by interviewing professors involved in women’s health at Rutgers through the Knowledge & Power course, Douglass’ mission course. As a student of both schools, I have access to the keys to understand who I am and who I can be. As a multiracial woman, I am passionate about diversity and including all perspectives at the Douglass Residential College and the Honors College. I believe that multiplicity of identities should be developed and recognized as a strength rather than a source of confusion. With that, being a member of both communities speaks to goals of diversity and interdisciplinarity in the Rutgers student body, and is reflected in the programming offered by both schools, between STEM seminars and art events.

The Knowledge and Power course has centered my college experience. There, I learned about gender studies at the intersection of race, class, and sexuality, along with feminist technology, and activism. For the course research paper, I had the empowering opportunity to connect with and interview an established woman working in a career that I am interested in. We created a BOLD (a Douglass initiative) action plan to map out our four years at Rutgers and how we would achieve our goals. Beyond the projects and assignments, we openly shared invigorating and personal conversations because of the encouraging, safe classroom space. In turn, we helped one another better understand the world around us in terms of cultural perspectives.

My freshman year included unforgettable experiences such as the Lori Roper Writing Workshop where I learned to write a monologue, and the Innovator in Residence Program (open to Honors College and Douglass women) where I got to collaborate with Nathalie Miebach. I found these programs through the help of my mentor, Cody Grabbe, who recommended that I join them to develop my passion for writing and STEM. These experiences became what I look back on fondly from my first semester as they strengthened my public speaking and sparked new connections. Through the guidance of Nathalie and Lori, I found myself inspired by strong and resilient mentors, women who I could look up to as innovators in their fields. Definitely check out Nathalie’s TED talk if you get the chance, Nathalie Miebach: Art made of storms. 

Esha’s First-Year Experience

Beginning college as a first-year amidst the pandemic has been an isolating experience. My focus on education and forming connections with peers is significantly more difficult, especially with the abundance of large, impersonal classes. Douglass and the Honors College have provided me with a warm welcome and a small community that I have not found elsewhere, especially during the pandemic. The friends that I have made are empowering and easy to connect with. We check in with and support one another, despite being physically far apart—as an out-of-state student, this is especially helpful. While this has lent itself to hardships, I have never felt like an outsider or unwelcomed, which I attribute to the new friends that I have made and the accepting, warm natures of Douglass and the Honors College. These communities have allowed for collaborations and relationships throughout Rutgers at-large where we can contemplate significant social justice issues, collaborate, and build strong connections with other Douglass and Honors College students.

My experience in the Douglass Knowledge and Power course eased that transition, providing for an experience that was rich with knowledge and community—a warm welcome to Rutgers. In this new, comfortable atmosphere at Douglass, I could speak directly to my peers and discuss important issues in the world, from feminism to intersectionality to issues of gender and sexuality. Throughout the course, we engaged in individual presentations about current events, including femicide in Latin America, women’s rights in Saudi Arabia, and the gendered impact of the pandemic, especially on women of color. This allowed me to discuss problems from different perspectives, including the international perspective, and it brought light to overshadowed issues faced by women, allowing me to grow and broaden my own perspective when discussing issues, especially through the Honors College experience. The class as a whole was made up of individuals with varying perspectives and personal experiences that supported the process of educating each other on our struggles and coming to terms with our privileges. The diversity and acceptance that these students offered was one of the most valuable experiences of my freshman year because it filled the lonely environment of virtual schooling with discussion and interaction. 

I still speak to some of my friends from the class who I have become close with, including Zoe, with whom I can hold vibrant conversations and who provide me with opportunities I would have otherwise missed. Recently, Zoe introduced me to the Women’s Health Institute at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, which focuses on uplifting women in the health sciences. I was even able to write a paper about maternal health in low-income countries for the Women’s Health Journal. It was an amazing opportunity that I would not have otherwise come across, and it is similar to a piece that I did through Knowledge and Power as well. For the final interview project, I focused on sexism in medicine and healthcare and interviewed a professional with knowledge about that topic. I learned about the professional’s personal and career experiences and about overshadowed issues in the field that could pertain to my own future. In this way, I was able to merge my interests of writing and health, while focusing on the circumstances of marginalized individuals. For the Honors College Forum, I was influenced by some of my Knowledge and Power learnings because I wrote about the lack of healthcare access for low-income, pregnant women in rural India. Using the themes that were discussed in my Knowledge and Power class, I was able to form an argument for my project for the Honors College mission course, which had a global focus. 

In the near future, I am really looking forward to finally meeting some of my Douglass and Honors College friends and meeting new students on campus.

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Reflection on a Study Abroad Experience

By Briony Smith

Class of 2019, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College

The strangest thing about coming back from study abroad is how quickly you forget that it ever happened. 

It’s remarkable and disturbing how easy it has been to return to my pre-study abroad mindset, and associated with that is an odd sense of guilt: I don’t feel like a completely different person, and that means that I didn’t do study abroad right.

There are times, when I’m sitting in class taking notes, or chatting with friends who haven’t gone abroad, or shuffling around my schedule, that the entire semester away seems like a dream that I only half remember in the brief moments after I wake up. By far the strangest, and most painful, experience has been sitting in training to be a Global Ambassador for the Study Abroad office and thinking to myself, “I already studied abroad. My semester abroad is over.” It’s as if I carried around this tension for years, waiting for the chance to study abroad, and the return to normality at Rutgers makes it feel as if the tension never dissipated like it should have.

But there are also moments, generally quiet and unforeseen, when I remember Santiago as clearly as if I had never left: suddenly, I can almost hear the people selling candy bars in the metro, yelling out what they have and the prices so quickly that it barely sounds like they are speaking at all. I remember a quirk of Chilean Spanish, a word I had almost forgotten until I feel the sudden urge to call something bacán instead of cool. I miss my host family and the freedom inherent in living in a big city. I miss speaking Spanish – and even though I’m taking three separate Spanish classes this semester, it doesn’t feel the same. I miss certain professors, and certain friends, and above all I miss the Andes mountains, a perpetual backdrop to life in Santiago. When I see pictures from friends doing a full year in Chile, I’m hit by an irrational surge of jealousy. I have been there. I have done those things. In a way, I’m grieving that I’m not there anymore.

My study abroad experience was marked by several different phases. When I arrived, I was shocked by how different it was from my expectations, and that quickly segued into culture shock, aggravated by the fact that my first host family was not particularly supportive. After I began to travel more and switched host families, my experience improved immensely.

If I had the chance to do it again there are things I would do very differently. I would have switched host families as soon as I discovered that my host mom was a smoker. I would have traveled more often, and taken easier classes. Although I loved certain classes, like my Conservative Thought class, I might have switched my Political and Economic Development of Chile class for a chance to learn the basics of Mapudungun, the indigenous language in Chile. I wish that I had taken more time to explore the city, and I wish that I had made Chilean friends earlier on (easier said than done – Chilean students, and especially girls, are notoriously slow to befriend “gringas”). I wish that I had gone sandboarding in the Atacama, and I wish that I had made it to Patagonia and to Argentina.

I think what they don’t tell you, when you’re preparing to go abroad, is that these kinds of regrets are normal. It’s why my roommate, Mathilde, who studied abroad in Valencia, and I both wish we had had more time in our respective countries. It’s why we were in the study abroad office today and picked up several fliers for summer study abroad programs (we’re already “repeat offenders” on study abroad, and it appears neither of us have had enough). They don’t tell you, when you’re getting ready to leave, how easy it is to feel guilty that every single day of your study abroad experience isn’t an amazing adventure. Instead, study abroad is several small adventures – horseback riding in the Andes Mountains, stargazing in the Atacama, visiting Machu Picchu, trying llama meat in a small town on your way back from a daybreak geyser and hot spring tour – interspersed with days when all you do is go to class, or catch a movie, or write an essay.

Study abroad has changed me, even if I don’t feel like a completely different person. The changes were small, and gradual, so that I didn’t notice them as they happened, and they were sometimes in ways that I’m not entirely comfortable sharing in a blog post. Nobody has remarked that I seem different, but it’s worth noting that I haven’t spent a lot of time with friends who weren’t in constant contact with me while I was away (the reactions I get when I see these friends for the first time are highly entertaining: they look at me like I’m a ghost come back from the dead). The changes that I can see in myself are that I’m self-aware in ways that I wasn’t before, slower to anger, and less phased by stressful situations. I’m also better aware of the importance of a strong community and the difference that it can make in your happiness.

I also think that the entire experience helped to reinforce my identity as a citizen of the United States. At the end of my experience, and even though I miss Chile desperately now, I was ready to come home to my family. For all that I want to travel the entire world, the United States will always be my home base – a place to come home to for Christmas and to see my family. It’s a strange quirk of being abroad, that you feel more American than ever – partly it’s the fact that that is how you are perceived by everyone around you. While I was abroad, I was expected by practically everyone that I met to answer for, or at least express an opinion on, the decisions of this country. The other factor at play is how much you suddenly find that you have in common with the other Americans. They understand your culture shock, and they hate and love the same things that you hate and love about the country that you’re in.

Study abroad is something that everyone should do if they have the chance. It’s an immensely fun experience, with opportunities that you will never have by staying in New Jersey at Rutgers. I have eaten seafood on a small archipelago of islands called Chiloe, and friends of mine hiked up an active volcano. The classes you have the chance to take can be incredibly interesting and expose you to a variety of viewpoints that you would not otherwise receive: my Conservative Thought class is possibly my favorite class that I have ever had. Personal growth is practically inevitable.

I could probably talk about study abroad for the rest of my life. Writing this piece has been particularly emotional for me because it’s the first time since returning that I have reflected critically on the experience. It’s a difficult thing to explain to someone who hasn’t done it themselves, and even with people who have been on study abroad, there’s something of a hesitancy to talk about the complexity of the emotions that surround it. I wouldn’t call it the happiest time of my life – that distinction remains reserved for a period of three weeks in Massachusetts the summer after my freshman year of high school – but it was one of the most interesting and the most influential periods of my life up to this point. I’m so incredibly glad that I had the opportunity to do it, and I hope that everyone else gets the chance to do it at some point before they graduate from Rutgers.

[ruhonorscollnb]

50 Things I Learned in My First 50 Days at the RU Honors College

By Jacqueline Mehr

Class of 2022, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Member of the Honors College and Douglass Residential College

1. Don’t procrastinate packing your dorm stuff. Trust me, having to make frantic Target runs a few hours before you move in isn’t the best idea.

2. Bring food. The dorms have fridges, freezers, and microwaves, all waiting to be stocked with and used for midnight snacks.

3. Buy a mattress topper, even if you don’t think you’ll need one. It makes your bed so much more comfy.

4. BRING A GOOD LIGHT. The dorms only have one light over the doors, so it can get pretty dark at night.

5. You can draw on your dorm door with chalk, so if you’re artsy, definitely pack a box of chalk!

6. It’s okay to be a little nervous on move-in day! I live super close to Rutgers, I had been to the campus at least fifty times before, and I could go home whenever I wanted, yet I still had some butterflies in my stomach. College is a big change. It’ll be fun though, I promise!

7.All of the upperclassmen HC students are super friendly and here to help, don’t be afraid to talk to them or pester them with questions!

8. Get to know your RA and Mentor in Residence, chances are they’re both really cool people! They’ll also put on events throughout the year (probably involving free food!) so be on the lookout for those.

9. There’s a chance that you won’t be happy with the first semester schedule that Rutgers makes for you. Don’t stress, it’s super easy to change your classes during add-drop period the first week of the semester.

10. Make sure to take your tests seriously and study for them.

11. With that being said, try to form study groups. It makes everything a lot more fun!

12. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can go to your professor’s office hours, a tutoring center, or a TA, all for free!

13. Get to know your professors, especially in classes you enjoy. You never know what kinds of connections they have, or what kind of amazing things they know.

14. Try to go to and pay attention in lectures. Because you spend a lot less time in the classroom in college as compared to high school, the time you do spend in lectures is chock full of information that’ll probably be on a test at some point.

15. Try to take a Byrne Seminar in something random. The classes are pass/fail, super chill, and a nice break from huge lecture hall intro courses.

16. Either wait to buy textbooks for a class until a week in, in case the professor says the textbook is not important, or ask people who previously took the class if the textbook is really necessary.

17. Don’t be afraid to take a class outside of your intended major. College is probably one of the last times in your life that you can study completely random and irrelevant topics, so take advantage of that!

18. It’s good to plan ahead on what classes you want to take and what activities you want to do, but make sure you are also flexible and open to things that you hadn’t initially planned to take part in.

19. Don’t do things for med school/law school/dental school/vet school/graduate school/future employers/anyone except yourself. You’re only in college once, make sure to find things that you seriously love and pursue them.

20. If you have AP or IB credit for any classes, use it. Especially for classes that check off core curriculum requirements.

21. Do not stress about finding research. There are so many different opportunities (Aresty, HC research mixers, project super, etc,), that as long as you take the initiative to look for a lab, you’ll be doing research!

22. Rutgers and the Honors College offer a ton of internship and service opportunities during winter and spring break. Take advantage of those, especially if you don’t have any break plans yet.

23. Go to the involvement fair. It’s going to be crowded, it’s going to be hot, and chances are you’re going to be tired. But the involvement fair is your one chance to see all of the clubs and groups at Rutgers. And you can get a ton of free stuff!

24. Sign up for any club that seems even remotely interesting— it’s the best way to meet new people doing something that interests you.

25. Go to at least one football game. The energy in the student section is incredible, and if Rutgers scores, then they’ll bring out a knight on a live horse!

26. Go to club meetings. You’ll make friends, you’ll be forced to take a break from school work, and you’ll have fun.

27. Go to free events (especially if food is promised!). Rutgers brings in impactful speakers who have graced the TED stage, hosts puppies for puppy yoga, offers free fitness classes every week, and a whole lot more!

28. Go to events hosted by the faculty fellows in residence. Dr. Mazzeo, Dr. Chayko, and Dean Matsuda are all awesome people, and there’s usually free food involved!

29. Give yourself plenty of time to get to classes in the first weeks of the semester, the busses will be packed.

30. Don’t stress about the bus system, it’s not as complicated as it seems. Plus, the bus will say which campuses it is going to (i.e. the A bus will say “Busch/College Ave”)

31. Weekend busses are less frequent than normal busses, so be sure to check the Rutgers app for the schedule on weekends.

32. During the warmer months, always check the seats on the bus before sitting. Sometimes the condensation on the air conditioners drips.

33. If you’re ever on Cook, check out Harvest Cafe. They have a smoothie bar, farm-to-table style food, and they take meal swipes!

34. The cook-to-order food at Brower is really good! It might take a few minutes longer, but if you have the time, it is definitely worth the wait.

35. A lot of restaurants in New Brunswick have student discounts, so always bring your RUID and ask if the restaurant is running any deals.

36. Try the smoothies at Neilson. My personal favorite is the blueberry one, but they’re all super delicious.

37. If you like coffee, check out the Starbucks Truck. They take meal swipes!

38. Find a place where you can study well. For me, that’s the Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health on Cook because of all of the natural lighting!

39. You’ll probably get a free water bottle at some point while you are at Rutgers. Use it. Most buildings here have water bottle filling stations at the water fountains.

40. Don’t worry about comparing yourself to everyone else. The Honors College is unique in that people are very collaborative, so there is no need to stress about cutthroat pre-meds or overzealous business majors aiming for Wall Street.

41. Try to get out of your dorm as much as possible, or at least leave your door open so that you can meet new people!

42. Some people enter the Honors College with a set group of friends from high school, some people enter the Honors College as the only person at Rutgers from their high school, and some people fit somewhere between the two groups. Wherever you fall on that spectrum, don’t stress too much about making friends. There are so many events and opportunities to socialize, and Rutgers has such a diverse student body, that it’s almost impossible to not have friends!

43. If you have an idea about something you want to create or pursue at the Honors College, tell someone! The HC is still relatively young and open to new ideas, and the deans are super friendly and they would love to hear your ideas.

44. The HC academic advisers are all awesome and super helpful, so don’t be afraid to ask them questions that may seem silly (they respond to emails pretty quickly!).

45. The service requirement is super easy to complete, and it’s actually a lot of fun. For example, I’m tutoring at a local elementary school once a week!

46. If you’re a woman and you are interested in STEAM (STEM plus art), there’s an all-expenses-paid week-long trip to New York City that you can take part in as a Douglass Honors College woman over your freshman year winter break where you learn all about art studios using science, and scientists using art!

47. Check the Honors College calendar of events on the website or in the email newsletter. There’s always neat things to do and cool opportunities out there!

48. The Honors College has a beautiful view of the Raritan, whether you’re on the patio, or in one of the east lounges. Take advantage of that!

49. You’re going to get a great education and have access to incredible experiences. Take advantage of these opportunities, work hard, and enjoy your college years!

50. The Rutgers Honors College is an amazing home, and I hands down made the right choice coming to Rutgers.

[ruhonorscollnb]

Making Beats in My Dorm Room

By Jessica Birk

Class of 2022, Rutgers Business School, Member of the Honors College

Hi! My name is Jessica and I make beats in my dorm room here in the HC.

Nowadays, the tools to make music are incredibly easy to access. You no longer need a complicated or expensive studio setup, equipped with thousand dollar mics and mixing consoles. To make music, all you need is a computer, an online recording studio setup called a DAW (I use Logic Pro X), and a keyboard. And oh yeah, most importantly, persistence and creativity. 

Every day, I go back to my dorm room and write songs. The process is different for everyone, but I like to start with some chords. I’ll choose a nice flowery piano and play a chord progression. From there, I start singing various melodies over the top of it. For a pop song, you normally need four melodies: one for the verse, pre-chorus, chorus, and bridge. Then I’ll add a base line and some 808s. 808s are really fun because they’re super low, growling drums. You can hear them really well in Beyonce’s “YONCE”. 

Next comes the beat. The beat is normally a combination of kicks, snares, snaps, claps, toms, and hi hats (including any other percussive instruments you want to add). Here is where I get really creative. In one of the songs I wrote, the beat was made up only of a kick and a cowbell. It sounded really awesome.

Then comes mixing and mastering. I add effects like EQ and Compression to the songs (basically fancy terms for getting the sound to be more crisp or more warm). Then I’ll play with the audio levels and export it. So far, I’ve created three finished songs but I’ve got boatloads of half finished ones!

I love making music here at the HC, and I’m glad that the rooms are big enough to fit my keyboard. Making music gives me a creative outlet to express myself. When I feel down after a difficult Calc quiz, I can come back and write a slow song (violin, piano, and all!). After a fun night out hanging with friends, I can retreat to my dorm room and write a grooving pop tune. Here at the HC, nobody is afraid to do and share what they love! This is my passion and I’m glad that the HC allows me to explore it.

[ruhonorscollnb]

Curiosity, Knowledge, Research

By Jacqueline Mehr

Class of 2022, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Member of the Honors College and Douglass Residential College

There’s nothing quite like walking into my lab with the sunrise. 

As I flip on the lights, the first golden drops of sun fill stray beakers, and while I shuffle through my list of things to do for the day, the refrigerators and cryostats hum their quiet good mornings. Although the organized chaos of our lab stations betrays the busyness to come, the stillness of the morning makes the uncharted discoveries of our projects feel privy to me. And in my first semester at Rutgers, I had the privilege of experiencing this dynamic stillness every morning.

Long before I graduated high school I knew I wanted to work in a lab. Every new technique tested to counter the cellular withering of neurodegenerative diseases, mechanism theorized regarding the growth of organs from stem cells, and mind-boggling factoid discovered about the brain stemmed from one thing: research. And while I wasn’t exactly sure of what research entailed, the potential to establish new truths and discover something never before known was exhilarating. 

Because of this, I leapt into research at the first opportunity I saw. While many universities reserve research for upperclassmen and specialize in only a select few fields, the size of Rutgers allowed me to become involved in research even before I moved into my dorm. Following a biology symposium in the winter of my senior year of high school, I approached a postdoctoral student who had presented on her neuroscience research to ask more about her work. The following summer, I spent a good portion of my time working in a lab under that same postdoc. And while the cell-counting that I began with was dry to say the least, the significance of what I was counting, not to mention the incredibly supportive community of Rutgers scientists who took the time to explain this and answer my many other research-related questions, ignited my passion for research. Although I didn’t quite understand much of what was done in my lab until a few months later, the continuous stream of articles to read and thoroughly answered questions provided to me by postdocs and fellow undergraduate students alike helped me piece together the foundation of my neuroscience knowledge.

Over a year later, I’m working through my third semester of research and my first project that I provided input on the design of. I continue to be amazed at the unearthings of vibrant new truths made through research, both in papers published online and the projects being run in my own lab at Rutgers. And sometimes, when I remember to wake up early enough, I catch a bus over to Busch campus and take a moment to soak in the electric potential of the incredible projects being run just across the Raritan. Then I get to work. After all, there are discoveries to be made.

[ruhonorscollnb]

Getting Involved at the Honors College and Rutgers

By Anna Masciandaro

Class of 2022, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College and Douglass Residential College

When you first start college, it can be overwhelming. 

You may be moving across the country or even to a different country. The hardest thing to do when you first get to college is find your niche.

I know that when I first started at Rutgers, I wasn’t really sure what to do with myself. I knew that I wanted to get involved in clubs, but I wasn’t sure which ones and I didn’t even know what clubs there were at Rutgers. Rutgers is a big school and there are hundreds of clubs. It can be overwhelming just looking at all the clubs that are listed and trying to figure out which ones you want to join.

Luckily, College Avenue is closed down for one afternoon for a huge Involvement Fair at the beginning of the fall semester where all of the clubs show up. They give you a map of where all the clubs are so that you can just go straight there instead of wandering around like a lost soul. A lot of the clubs do not require experience and most of them allow you to show up and check out what the club is all about before making a full commitment. The fair is also a great opportunity to get free Rutgers stuff like phone pockets, buttons, key chains, and water bottles. Sometimes there are even companies that will come to the fair like HBO—they even brought a replica of the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones.

In addition to that, the Honors College hosts a mini-fair that has all the clubs that are just for Honors College students. That’s how I found out about the Honors College Media Team. It’s also less overwhelming than the College Ave fair because there’s not as many people and not as many organizations.

For me, the biggest resource I had club-wise, was getINVOLVED—a website that lists the clubs and organizations that Rutgers has, which I found out about through my orientation. It’s a really useful resource to have because before going to the fair, you can go onto getINVOLVED and see if there are any clubs or organizations that might interest you.

In addition to the fairs and getINVOLVED, you can also join communities. Rutgers has three types of communities: living-learning, thematic, and residential colleges. Because I’m in the Honors College I live in the Honors College building, but because I’m also part of the Douglass Residential College (DRC), I live in the DRC hall of the Honors College. Being in a community not only allows you to fully immerse yourself in that interest, but it also comes with more opportunities and the chance to meet people who have similar interests as you. I get weekly HC and DRC emails about different opportunities like upcoming events, resume workshops, or research and internship opportunities.

My advice is to get involved because it’s really easy to do, it’ll make it easier to make friends, and there are so many opportunities that come with it.

Right now, I’m involved in multiple clubs and organizations: CHAARG, Rutgers Women’s Ultimate Frisbee (RWUF), Honors College Media Team, Odyssey, and partially the Daily Targum. CHAARG is a workout group that I joined because I wanted to help motivate myself to work out and stay in shape. It was definitely a good decision because I got to meet girls in all the years who also wanted to get fit and meet other people. Media Team, Odyssey, and the Daily Targum allow me to expand on my writing interests and meet other people who also enjoy writing and reporting, and those organizations also allow me to expand my writing portfolio for internships or jobs. The Media Team also enables me to explore other subjects like social media management, photography, and new technological advancements like VR and AR. As for RWUF, well, RWUF feels like my second family. Not only do I get to play a sport that I love, but I also get to play it with an amazing group of girls who have similar interests as me. Being on the team also allows me to travel up and down the coast for tournaments or scrimmages.

If you do have trouble finding out what organizations you want to get involved with, just ask around. You can ask your friends, professors, RA, or Mentor in Residence. Getting involved and putting yourself out there may be a little nerve-racking at first, but you won’t regret it. It really is worth it.

[ruhonorscollnb]

Reflections: From a Second-Year to a First-Year

By Shannon Cheung

Class of 2019, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College 

Inaugural Honors College Residence Hall Association

To the incoming freshman, afraid and excited all at once:

Welcome! I love it here, and you will too.

Rutgers in and of itself is one big community, around sixty-seven thousand strong. 

It’s cool that so many of us are connected by the Scarlet Knight identity, but still, I admit, it’s intimidating as well. I’ve always been a fan of smaller, more intimate group settings, so how did Rutgers ever end up being a place I’ve come to call home?

The Rutgers community is comprised of so many smaller ones, and you can be in as many of them as you want. My greatest motivation for anything has come from the communities that I’ve built with my peers. Being here, surrounded by so many others, gives you ten thousand possible ways to connect with others.

The best way to connect, however, is by joining a club (or clubs). Cultural, sexual, religious, etc. identity clubs. Sports clubs. Activism clubs. Hobby clubs. Volunteering clubs. Professional clubs. You get the idea. Rutgers boasts a buffet of student organizations that we probably don’t even have the physical capacity to fill up on. That’s the beauty of it. There’s so many niche clubs that you’re bound to meet plenty of relatable people as long as you take the first step and attend any meetings that spark even a hint of your interest. The people you meet are the ones that you can wind down with at the end of the day, letting go of whatever struggles you encountered earlier and enjoying each other’s presence, as well as the thing that brought you all together in the same room at 10:00pm on a Tuesday night.

At a certain point, however, you’ll probably start to remember that you’re not just here to go to clubs, that this is still school and you’re steering your own academic and career paths now. When you come to that realization read this next letter.

To the first-year student, stressing out about the first wave of exams coming up, struggling to stay involved in all the clubs you intended on going to, and maybe even questioning your career path:

Hi, how are you? No, how are you really? Breathe deeply. Have you been eating breakfast? Hydrating yourself? Sleeping 7 to 8 hours a day?

It’s my sincere hope that you’re adjusting to this new lifestyle okay. I hope you’re meeting new people. Most importantly, I hope you’re able to find some peace and quiet in the midst of all the chaos. I love Rutgers as much as the next person, but sometimes you need to retreat, and that’s okay. Club meetings are supposed to be fun. You’re supposed to want to go to them. If they’ve become a chore or if they’ve become too much to handle on top of school, consider taking a break or re-evaluating your study schedule.

If you’re beginning to question your academic path or the workload you’ve taken on this semester, speak to an adviser! As a first-year HC student, your adviser is literally just a few floors away. Take advantage of that! Your adviser is here to – you guessed it – advise. Ask questions, and ask lots of them. If they don’t have the answer, they’ll guide you to someone who does have the answer. Over time you’ll figure out your passions and interests on your own, but advisers are there to guide you in achieving your changing goals.

Rutgers is great for getting involved, but it’s also really amazing at providing support. In addition to your adviser, as well as an extensive network of peer mentors, Rutgers has such programs as HOPE (Health Outreach, Promotion, and Education) and CAPS (Counseling, ADAP, and Psychiatric Services), which you may have heard about. What you haven’t heard enough about, probably, is that you shouldn’t shortchange yourself because “someone else has it worse.” Your experiences are real and your feelings are valid. These programs are here to help all students.

Lastly, give yourself some leeway in your schedule to do something that you enjoy with the people you care about. Every once in a while, take a break from putting on programs for people and participate! Pie your friends in the face for charity (see below)! Friends are going to be there throughout the good and bad; they’re the ones who are going to lift you up when you’re not feeling strong enough to do it yourself. Take time out of your busy schedule to de-stress with them!

[ruhonorscollnb]

Major Mess

By Kaitlyn San Miguel

Class of 2019, School of Arts and Sciences, Member of the Honors College

It’s my weekend home, and some relatives from out of town are visiting. 

My family is crammed around a table that’s filled with all the homemade food I miss when staying on campus. We’re listening to my older brother talk about his work as an aerospace engineer, a field he was passionate about since middle school. The conversation is focused on him, and I’m reaching for some rice when suddenly-

“So, Kaitlyn, how about you? What are you majoring in again?” my aunt asks, looking at me innocently.

Oh no. I almost drop my plate.For some people, the question is a simple one, the answer easy. Cell biology and neuroscience! Information tech and informatics! Economics! The first week of college, I was sure I was going to be a microbiology major on a pre-med track. By the second week, I was considering also double majoring in public health. By the end of the first month, I had already called my mom to let her know that I was planning to double major in biological sciences and English while staying on a pre-med track. By the end of the first wave of exams, I was in my academic advisor’s office, asking about the process of school-to- schooltransfers at Rutgers so I could do English and journalism/ media studies.

I later learned that other people–people who lived on my floor, sat across from me in class, brainstormed with me at meetings, people who seemed like they have it all figured out–don’t really know what they’re doing either. They’re interested in business but are also considering pre-med. They like computer science, art history, Spanish, psychology, and everything in-between. I used to think that everyone but me knew exactly what they wanted: which major, which minor, which career, which Netflix show to marathon next. College showed me that very few people actually know what they’re doing, and that it’s totally fine to switch your major two or six times. Whether there aren’t any majors you’re interested in or there are eight, you have plenty of time to figure things out, even if it doesn’t seem that way.