For some students, freshman year of college is a huge step, both academically and personally. They have to learn to live on their own and how to deal with the change between high school and college classes.
Over the course of a year, many freshmen have changed, either due to academics, the social life they have, athletics or a mixture of everything.
One part of college that seems to be difficult for some students is the academics. Students sometimes struggle with making the change from high school expectations to college expectations.
Amryn Dover, an early childhood and special education major, said she has learned a lot from her time at Bluffton academically.
“I have changed academically because in my high school I did not learn much but when I came here I learned so much,” Dover said. “I actually feel smart now.”
Rachel Buschur, a graphic design major, also has learned much in her short time at Bluffton.
“I have been doing better with school and personally, I have become more outgoing since I have been away from home,” Buschur said. “I have become a much better person since coming to Bluffton.”
Connor Sanders (left) and Rachel Buschur (right) study in Bren-Dell lobby. Photo by Dani Easterday
Connor Sanders, a dietetics major, may not have experienced the academic difficulties other students have faced, but he has transformed during his time here at Bluffton.
“I’m a much different person now than I was a few months ago, and I’m fine with where I am mentally,” Sanders said.
A few students took the opportunity to transfer to Bluffton at the beginning of the spring semester. Buschur is one of the students who transferred here.
“It has been a positive experience transferring to Bluffton,” Buschur said. “Everyone here has been helpful and welcoming.”
Looking back to the beginning of the year, Dover wished she knew as much coming into Bluffton as she does now.
“Coming into freshman year, I wish I knew that I had to schedule my own classes and pick out my own room,” Dover said.
Looking forward to the coming year, Dover is excited for fresh starts and new freshmen.
“I am mostly looking forward to meeting the new freshmen, so I can help them through the experience,” said Dover. “I am looking forward to starting my school year fresh.”
Sanders is part of BUNA, the Bluffton University Nutrition Association. Students in BUNA have the opportunity to develop professionally and participate in activities that encourage service learning and social activities.
“For next year, I cannot wait to be back in BUNA,” Sanders said. “That is my absolute favorite thing to do, and I also can’t wait to be back here with all my friends.”
Overall, Buschur, Dover and Sanders have found Bluffton to be a place of transformation and fun experiences.
“My first year here at Bluffton has been fun and a good learning experience,” Sanders said.
“It has been an amazing experience, and I have had a lot of fun meeting new people,” Dover said. “It has been stressful at times; however, I’m glad to say I did it.”
