To say that college is a whirlwind of challenges, emotions and surprises is an understatement. I won’t sugarcoat it, my college career started rough, and at the time I had very low expectations of it ever improving. That’s when the Life section editors at the time (shoutout Esther and Joanne) pushed me to apply for their roles. Though it wasn’t in my initial plans, I said yes, and UConn slowly began morphing into a home away from home.  

Getting involved in The Daily Campus was the best thing I could have done for myself. That’s the beauty of independence and free will: experimentation. While the idea of endless possibilities is exciting yet also daunting, say yes to everything. Even if you end up hating that club or job or class, you come out of the experience having learned one more thing about yourself.  

Even if you’re not a writer, The Daily Campus has a space for all sorts of niches. Between the designer, copy editor, digital, writer, editor, artist, photographer, social media and delivery driver roles, you’re bound to find a way to contribute to our editorially independent paper aimed at serving you, the students.  

My biggest piece of advice? Don’t be afraid to do things alone. Had I waited around for a buddy to accompany me to my first Life meeting, I would have missed out on the invaluable opportunities and relationships The Daily Campus has given me. Take the wheel on your personal college experience. It won’t always be pretty, but it’s better to go through the bad than to leave this campus wondering “what if.” 

Go to the club meetings; knock on your floormate’s door; go on the side-quests. While you’re at it, take a peek behind Moe’s where you’ll find our old but beloved Daily Campus building. If you’re feeling adventurous, swing by my office on the second floor and say hi. 

Believe me when I say these four years will be over before you know it. Live in the moment, don’t give up and good luck!