Class Notes: Words of Wisdom from Freshman OT Students

Class Notes: Words of Wisdom from Freshman OT Students

Beautiful first day of the Spring 2014 semester on Saint Louis University's campus.

"Everyone and everything around you is your teacher." -Ken Keyes, Jr.

As we begin the spring 2014 semester, we have asked our freshman class to reflect upon their first semester at Saint Louis University.  Below, read their words of wisdom regarding the lessons they have learned during their Saint Louis University experience thus far.

“Being a freshman in college is both nerve-racking and exciting. Everything you experience is new and an adjustment. Without having your parents and familiar faces by your side, you find a new sense of independence.” –Gabriela Eraci

 “There is no way to fully describe the college adjustment process, but if you are patient and willing to work hard, your freshman year and overall college experience will be great! Freshman year you’re given the opportunity to completely reform your identity and meet lots of new people. I truly experienced the most growth as an individual when I came to college.” –Audrey Hunter

 “The OT program has a very rigorous curriculum, but with all the support from academic advisors, faculty mentors, and professors, I am not worried about the classes that I will be taking in the future because I know that there are always people willing to help me if I ever run into any issues along the way.” –Mary Reagan

“As a freshman I have learned to take responsibility for all of my actions. Overall, I have learned that even when I receive a terrible grade to not give up but keep a positive mind set and believe that I can do better on the next assignment.” –Megan Savell

“Being a freshman is an experience unlike any other.  It is the chance to start over, to grow, and to be vulnerable.  The anticipation that stems from leaving home and beginning to live independently is incredible, but the reward of finally settling into a new way of life is incomparable.  Freshman year has been a combination of finding myself and defining my future… [The] highs and lows of freshman year come unexpectedly, but they are inevitable.  The lows help me to rebuild myself into the person I have always hoped to be and the highs help me appreciate everything I have been given and make me feel confident in the choice I made coming to Saint Louis University.  The journey of college so far has been absolutely incredible and I cannot wait to see how I grow even more in my freshman year and all years to come.” –Elly Harrell

We want to hear from you: What advice do you have for students as they begin a new semester?