“Time flies.” We’ve all heard it before, especially when you’re having fun. But regardless of how often you hear the phrase, you are rarely ever prepared for the moment when you realize half of your Princeton University career is gone.
I remember moving in to campus as a first-year student, fresh-faced and eager to experience all Princeton had to offer me. I joined way too many clubs, took classes in departments I had never heard of, went on University-sponsored trips and made some amazing friends. You could say I was having fun.
So it came as a surprise when I began to realize just how much time had flown by without me noticing. After two wonderful years, I am now jumping into the deep end of a pool full of junior papers, research seminars, challenging classes for my concentration and being on an independent meal plan, where I am reponsible for providing my own meals. With only two years remaining, I’ve decided I need to take advantage of every single opportunity that makes Princeton, in my opinion, "the best damn place of all." Here are a few of those opportunities for those of you who, like me, want to make the most of your time at college:
- Go on trips sponsored by your residential college. I went apple picking with some friends in my first year, and it’s still one of my fondest memories.
- See a Broadway show, also through a residential college. I grew up in New York, very close to Manhattan, so I saw a lot of Broadway shows growing up. It’s definitely something that I miss, and it makes me think of home.
- Go to more dance shows. The student body at Princeton is full of incredible talent, and supporting friends is always a good idea.
- Explore Nassau Street. Princeton is situated in a cute small town that reminds me a lot of where I grew up. Exploring the area and discovering the local businesses is a fun adventure to experience with friends!
- Go to more lectures/conferences. Last year, I went to my first lecture and heard Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, Sonia Sotomayor talk about her life, including her time at Princeton. It was amazing to see such a successful woman and alum. It got me even more excited for the future.
- Attend more athletic events. The athletics department is extensive and talented, and it is an intrinsic part of most people’s college experience. And, of course, I love supporting my school!
- Go to office hours more often. One of Princeton's strongest qualities is its wealth of amazing professors. Not only are office hours beneficial because you can learn something, but they are also an opportunity to get to know your professors, and making connections is always worthwhile!
This is a short list, and it definitely does not include everything I want to do here, but it’s a great place to start!