As I prepare to head back to Tulane after the holiday break, I find myself reflecting on my first semester experiences. When I boarded a plane from New York to New Orleans on August 24th, I was anxious, fearful, and uncertain. My mind was cluttered with all types of thoughts. Will I make friends? Will I miss home? Will I find my place? The first few hours were a bit overwhelming. I started with an empty room, which would soon become my new home. When it came time to say goodbye to my parents and my younger brother, I promised myself I would not look back. I desperately held back tears, not wanting to meet people for the first time with mascara dripping down my cheeks. I kept my promise, and I did not look back to see my parents drive away. I walked back to my “room” alone but ready to begin the new chapter of my life.

The first few weeks were not easy. I met so many people, but small talk did not often lead to something more significant. I frantically called my dad sobbing that I couldn’t find my classroom. I facetimed by best friend multiple times complaining that I felt lonely. I was overwhelmed. Then something strange happened. I suddenly felt like I belonged, and my amazing journey at Tulane began.

In three short months, I learned a lot about myself and became a more independent, confident, and mature woman. So, here are the top 20 things I learned at Tulane:

1. It’s okay to cry. While you may feel alone or want to hide the fact that you’re a little homesick and overwhelmed, sometimes you just need a good cry or a vent session. My roommate and I have many of these.
   
2. Never assume that you can get to class in 5 minutes. I did this too often. Big mistake!
   
3. Keep track of meal plan swipes or they will run out halfway through the semester.
   
4. Keep in touch with your home friends (even though we are miles and miles away I absolutely love hearing about everyone’s experiences).
   
5. Do not keep too many snacks in your room. They will be gone within less than a week.
   
6. Do not judge people based on what you may have heard prior to coming to school (Jewish geography can be dangerous sometimes).
   
7. Just because UberEats is convenient and available does not mean order in every night.
   
8. Go to the gym (even if that means getting out of bed and pausing Netflix … if you’re like me you can even continue to watch Netflix as you run on the treadmill!).
   
9. Always go to class! Many teachers take attendance.
   
10. Get to know people on your floor! It’s nice when you know the names of the people that you brush your teeth with each night.
    
11. True friends will force you to get out of bed when you’ve been there for way too long, comfort you when you’re sad, and make you die of laughter.
    
12. Become friendly with people in your classes. This is necessary for homework help and studying!
    
13. Go to the library once in awhile (You will be surprised how much work you can get done!).
    
14. Remember what you post or get tagged in on Facebook is likely the first thing that will pop up on your dad or grandma’s newsfeed.
15. Remember to call your parents once in awhile!
    
16. Read the syllabus fully and do not e-mail teachers something that is clearly listed in the syllabus. (May not go over too well).
    
17. Make sure to eat right. Plan your meals out based on your available time throughout the days because a busy schedule should not be an excuse for skipping meals.
    
18. Find time in the day where you can be alone. (Whether it’s laying in bed, taking a walk, or finding a quiet spot, alone time is valued in college).
    
19. Even though the dining hall is not the greatest thing, you will find something to eat and it’s important to eat there a few times a week unless you’re looking to go broke.
    
20. Appreciate every moment and do the things that make you happy!

As winter break winds down, I am looking forward to next semester, and going “home.”

Roll Wave!