Bri Alberghini ‘21
Editor-in-Chief
It is weird to remember that at this time, three summers ago, my journey at Merrimack began. I remember buying all sorts of decorations for my dorm room and counting down the days until move-in. I remember feeling scared, anxious, nervous, happy, and excited all at the same time. I remember being nervous to leave family and friends at home, but also excited to make new ones at what would become my new home. But, what I remember the most, was questioning whether college would be for me.
I now have an answer to that question: college is for me. These past three years have been the best years of my life. I would love to be in your shoes just beginning this journey all over again.
Now that I’m in my senior year, I would like to share some of what I’ve learned so far during my time at Merrimack College.
- BE YOURSELF!
Okay, I know what you’re thinking – is she serious? Yes, I am serious. I know the saying “be yourself” is one of the most cliche lines, but it is a cliche for a reason: it’s true. Freshman-year me and senior-year me are literally two different people. During my freshman year, I was trying so hard to fit in with random girls just to be “cool.” What I realized is that I value someone liking me for me rather than pretending to be someone that I’m not. If there is one piece of advice I strongly suggest, it is this.
- It’s okay if your roommate isn’t your best friend.
Due to the fact that we are in a pandemic right now, getting to know your roommate will be more important than ever. But, with that being said, it is okay if your roommate isn’t your best friend. I really wanted to be best friends with my first roommate, and things just didn’t work out that way. Back then, I was devastated, but now I realize that it was totally okay that things didn’t work out the way I wanted them to. What you and your roommate do need to do is set boundaries with each other and learn to respect each other. I recommend setting up a time to talk with your roommate, so you can learn each other’s living styles and see what will work best for both of you.
- Have a routine.
Having a routine at college is so crucial. During my freshman year, I wasn’t involved in any clubs (please don’t make the same mistake I did, and get involved early, if you can), and had so much down time that I wasn’t using to my advantage. Develop a schedule that works best for you. Maybe you wake up at the same time every day, go to the gym, head to class, and then go to the library for a few hours. Or, maybe it is that you wake up, study, go get breakfast, and then head to class. Do whatever works for you and allows you to be consistent is what is best.
- Take as many pictures and videos as you want.
There have been so many times this summer that I have looked back at videos with my friends from the last three years, and it always brings a smile to my face. Some day those pictures and videos will be all you have to look back on, so take as many as you want. With that being said, make sure you stay “in the moment” and don’t live your life through a screen – soak up every memory and fun time that you’ll have during the next four years.
