Nikhila Achanta
Honors Biomedical Sciences

Take it easy, and enjoy exploring your passions. Everyone has a unique and telling story that is their own.

Alima Alam
Computer Science

Gokul Anirudhan
Biology

Don’t procrastinate

Anita Annor
Computer Science

Balance school life and social life as if you tightrope.

Naumi Aparanji
Computer Science

Sanju Binny
Biology

Don’t stress

Mariam Dumitrascu
Honors Biomedical Sciences

Eshwar Ranganath
Biology

Hannah Guehria
Honors Biomedical Sciences

Don’t look at what the others are doing and don’t compare. Everyone has their own timeline.

Khaled Hlayel
Computer Science

Don’t stress about exams, just study well.

Humaira Hoque
Biochemistry

The advice I would give to my freshman self is to plan out classes and studying ahead of time, and to follow it as much as possible. Also know that if things become stressful, remember the resources you have like tutoring and workshops. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks, and remember that there are many ways to reach your goals. Take as much time as you need and appreciate how far you’ve come.

Iman Jaka
Biochemistry

Reece Kang
Biology

Step out of your comfort zone to make more friends and stay healthy.

Akosua Karikari
Biology

My advice would to be comfortable being alone as well as to put myself out there. It would also be to ask for help when needed.

Khyaati Khanna
Computer Science

Make sure to include sleep in your schedule. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help you’re not the only one who’s overwhelmed. Stay clam and you got this!

Aaron Kisitu
Computer Science

Don’t start missing classes, it’s hard to get back into the habit of going again.

Abinanda Manoj
Computer Science

Sylvana Mvoi
Biology

Enjoy the ride.

Larry Nguyen
Biochemical & Biophysical Sciences

Never be afraid to go out of your comfort zone. That’s where the best opportunities lie.

Matthew Nguyen
Biochemical & Biophysical Sciences

Prioritize your mental health. Sometimes academics have to take a pause.

Auxil Perez
Biology

Always try your best to build a support system. It’s hard doing stuff alone.

Annamaria Rodrigues
Biology

Relax! you’ll find your niche in time

Haley Romine
Psychology

To my freshman self, I would say to not be afraid of the unknown and be open-minded to the chances you get along the way. It’s perfectly fine to not have all the answers—simply take a step back, reflect, and embrace the trial and errors of life.

Ayaan Saleem
Biology

I would tell my freshman self to learn how to manage time and invest in finding an extracurriculars you can enjoy.

Noor Shabaneh
Honors Biomedical Sciences

To not be afraid to ask for help when you need it! There are so many resources available on campus meant to help you academically and personally, so take advantage of them all!

Sabrina Thomas
Biology

Take things at your own pace, it’s okay to not know everything!

Sydney Thuy
Computer Science

Be proactive, don’t hesitate to take opportunities when you get them!

Charles Udo
Biochemistry

Try to get involved and find a support community.

Mustafa Vejlani
Computer Science

You don’t have to worry about looking like a failure. You’ve come to college to learn, and part of learning is failing.

Elaine Vo
Biology

Make your schedule your wallpaper.

Kaitlin Wood
Biology

I would tell my freshman self to embrace the journey of forming friendships and connections. Don’st be disheartened if it takes time for these bonds to deepen; genuine relationships require patience and mutual effort. As for your career goals, understand that they can evolve, sometimes in unexpected ways. Stay open to new opportunities and be flexible in adjusting your path as life unfolds.

In terms of balancing priorities, know that it’ss okay to shift your focus between academics, professional development, and social life as needed. True friends will support your need to concentrate on your studies when required. Remember, taking initiative is essential; mere intentions won’st get you far. If you have a goal, don’st hesitate to take concrete steps towards it. Be proactive in shaping your future.

Lastly, recognize that being the best isn’st the goal; continuous improvement is. Each day, aim to be a slightly better version of yourself. Don’st dwell on past choices; instead, focus on the choices you make today and how they contribute to your growth. Life is about progress, not perfection, so keep moving forward with confidence and purpose.

Iqra Yamin
Biology

Be proactive in your classes, join a club or two, and most importantly, have fun!! Freshman year only happens once, so enjoy everything - even the mistakes you make.

Noor Zughaibi
Biology