Second semester allows for more exploration
A freshman once more
March 4, 2016
On an unseasonably warm Thursday this month, sprawled on a couch in the journalism room, I watched students stroll back and forth through the heart of campus, hurrying to class. Splotches of sun spilled in through the windows, and I nearly dozed off. For the first time in three years, I felt relaxed, carefree and calm.
I felt like a freshman again.
On a superficial level: I am no longer an active member of any club, save for journalism. I’m taking physics. Dr. Douglas (who taught sections of English 1 until last year) is once again my teacher. The comparison was airtight.
I know I have less than three months to explore everything that should’ve been done in a span of three years.
When I mentioned these revelations to a real freshman, he had a different diagnosis: senioritis. Relaxed? Calm? Yeah, right. Between finishing The Odyssey and memorizing the exploits of ancient civilizations in World History, he said, he had plenty to worry about.
But after a long, painful semester under the shadow of the college application process, I’ve finally had a chance to slow down and explore. I’ve started taking yoga classes, playing ping pong in the gym, and taking long walks around campus. Two weeks ago, I spent an hour with a group of friends trying (and failing) to learn an obscure variant of Bridge.
I tried not to wax philosophical as I stared out the window, but the feeling was bittersweet. I know I have less than three months to explore everything that should’ve been done in a span of three years.
Maybe I should’ve taken that free period – or played quiz bowl – or joined the linguistics club – or heeded Kerry and Mr. Irvine shouting in the Edge to participate in spirit events.
I finally have the time to start these activities, but not nearly enough to fully enjoy them.
To the real freshmen – the Class of 2020 – take chances and do what excites you. Enjoy the ability to explore without making commitments – you might not experience it again for another three years.
This piece was originally published in the pages of the Winged Post on Mar. 2, 2016.