Every person who decides to pursue a college degree will inevitably have to face the day when they adorn themselves in their themed robe and walk the stage to graduate. Many often look back on the first ever spark of their college career, when they’re still in high school and have to decide where it is they want to go to study.
Over the summer, Keene State will have a whole population of prospective Owls busy completing their first-year checklist as they enjoy their last summer pre-college. Current KSC students took the time to share pieces of advice that the incoming class of 2030 should know before they journey into Hootie’s domain this coming fall.
“The thing I would say is make sure you go to class,” said sophomore Abby Gomez.
“I agree with go to class; don’t skip. I would also say to make friends with everybody,” first-year Karina Talwar said.
First-year Loghan Varney also agreed with Gomez’s thought. “Don’t skip class, that’s probably my biggest piece of advice,” Varney said. “Also, make sure to use your resources, especially if you’re struggling. There are people there for you.”
Varney’s tablemate, first-year Madison Schuman, echoed that students should keep up with attending their classes.
While the uncertainty of a new place leads to many first-years electing to huddle up in their dorm for the first few weeks of the year, first-years Adelia Stopyro and Lucy Strasburg said that they would encourage new students to get out on campus.
“Go to events on campus and you’ll meet a bunch of people,” Stopyro shared. “You should try to get out of your dorm even though it’s scary.”
“Yeah, just go outside, you’ll feel better,” Strasburg added. “Seriously, even if you’re just sitting on a bench. Just try to get out!”
Many students shared that getting out there and getting involved in clubs and activities is the best way to adjust to college life.
“Put yourself out there and try to join at least one activity,” first-year Declan Crocco said. Crocco’s tablemate, junior Jackson Kany, seconded that sentiment.
“Try to get involved in a club of some sort–especially rugby,” Kany urged. “We have a men’s and women’s team.”
Junior Owen Warner shared that he would tell the class of 2030 to get involved as early as possible.
“Getting out there early will help you. I would say students should look into Outing Club and being a CA. Those are two activities that I do,” Warner shared.
Other students had thoughts on the types of academics that incoming students should be looking to pursue.
“Go into STEM,” sophomore Garrett Emery said. “That’s where it’s at.”
Keene State boasts a total of 60 student-led organizations and a variety of majors and minors that incoming students can look into before they officially live as an Owl. Visit https://keene.presence.io to view the organization’s list or visit the official KSC website to learn more about the academics offered.
Serena Taylor can be contacted at
staylor@kscequinox.com
