University of Cincinnati: round one
2013-2014
This first year at Cincinnati has been quite the experience. The relationships I've gained and opportunities I've been given have definitely shaped me as a person. I didn't know what to expect coming into such a large school, but I am more than glad I did. The opportunities at UC are endless and I've already gained so many valuable ones in one academic year. I never really felt like just another number, or a pointless freshman. I felt like I belonged.
I think the biggest reason for this was the relationships I gained through the Bearcat Bands. in general, though, my first year consisted of a lot of self-development. I had to make new friends, refrain from being introverted, and be responsible with my own belongings, time, and money. From the endless choices of majors, student groups, and how to spend my free time, I really had to learn who I was and what I wanted to accomplish.
This is exactly how I've grown the most through UC so far. There were so many different directions to take, which forced me to really think about who I am. Starting school knowing no one, was actually a blessing in disguise. I had no one to influence my choices; my life was entirely up for me to decide, free from outside input. Joining band, Engineers without Borders, volunteering for Cincinnatus hours, being involved in a learning community all contributed to my development. I've learned a lot about the person I am, and still want to be. I think the friends I've made through this first year are a reflection of exactly that . Which leads to my next topic: my significant relationships.
I think the biggest reason for this was the relationships I gained through the Bearcat Bands. in general, though, my first year consisted of a lot of self-development. I had to make new friends, refrain from being introverted, and be responsible with my own belongings, time, and money. From the endless choices of majors, student groups, and how to spend my free time, I really had to learn who I was and what I wanted to accomplish.
This is exactly how I've grown the most through UC so far. There were so many different directions to take, which forced me to really think about who I am. Starting school knowing no one, was actually a blessing in disguise. I had no one to influence my choices; my life was entirely up for me to decide, free from outside input. Joining band, Engineers without Borders, volunteering for Cincinnatus hours, being involved in a learning community all contributed to my development. I've learned a lot about the person I am, and still want to be. I think the friends I've made through this first year are a reflection of exactly that . Which leads to my next topic: my significant relationships.
The first relationship I've gained that has made a major impact has to be that of my roommate: Sam. We met on the Cincinnati class of 2017 Facebook page, and as basically strangers decided to room together. This was one of the best decisions ever. Although I was awkward at first, living with a stranger and all, we became inseparable. We got along more than great, shared countless interests, and are now the best of friends. I made more strong friendships throughout the year, many mutual with Sam, but I think having someone to grow as a friend with for a roommate was crucial to my experience. The countless hours spent studying, relaxing, procrastinating, and who knows what else in that tiny dorm room would have been incredibly lonely without a friend to share them with. The strong relationships I've made this year are all significant in different way; each friend helps me become better in some manner. Pushing me to study, go to mass, clean my room, or relax when I need to; they're always there for me. I thought it would be hard to find friendship on this level, or that it would take quite some time at a large university, but I found some pretty high-quality friendships within my first year.
This first year has set a precedence for the rest of my career at UC. It has made me a much more outgoing, opportunity-seeking person, and I will continue the rest of my time here on what I've learned from this year. Going into my second year, I will remember how much I've enjoyed the chances I've taken and not become lazy or content. Going into the co-op program, I'll be much more proactive and confident in my job search than I ever could have been before these experiences. I plan to make each year as memorable, if not more so than the fantastic year I have just completed. #GoBearcats