Advice from Current Upperclassmen

CULTURE ADVICE

Sophie O’Reilly| Staff Writer

Pictured: Shaunell Henderson

In the hope of giving freshmen a peek into what Hendrix life is like from the perspective of those who have already lived it, Addie Race (c/o 2022), Ben Blankenship (c/o 2022), Shaunell Henderson (c/o 2023), Gifty Agana (c/o 2021), and Roth Coats (c/o 2021) took a minute to share some advice with the Class of 2024.

Shaunell Henderson, Class of 2023

What are your favorite cafeteria meals that you think we should watch out for?

I love chicken strips and mac & cheese day! There is also Sunday brunch, which is *chef’s kiss*. But the sandwich line is really great for people with a lot of dietary restrictions.

What is your favorite Hendrix tradition that we should look forward to after the pandemic?

My favorite Hendrix tradition was definitely shirttails! It was so much fun, and everyone was extremely encouraging.

What are some things you didn’t bring with you your freshman year that you wish you had?

I really wish I brought a three-drawer cart. Also, ZIP TIES, oh my gosh!! I never knew I needed these, but they come in so much handy for tying your surge protector to your bed frame!!

What was your favorite part of freshman year?

My favorite part of freshman year was probably the time I spent in the Couch Hall lobby. The community in Couch is so chaotic and friendly, and I love it.

What was the most important lesson you learned in your freshman year?

The most important lesson that I learned was to always reach out to your professors if you need help, or even to just chat. Take advantage of office hours because you’re going to need them.

Pictured: Roth Coats FROM

Roth Coats, Class of 2021

Do you have any funny stories from freshman year?

One of my professors said hi to me, and I got so startled that I fell and sprained my ankle. That’s also how I met Nurse Necie.

What did you bring that ended up being a waste of space in your dorm room?

A relationship from high school. But really, extras of bulky things like soap and paper towels that are easy to get at Walmart when you’re close to running out.

How is remote learning different from in-person learning? What should freshmen watch out for as they make the transition?

As someone with ADD, being able to turn my camera off means that I can put all my brain cells to learning instead of trying to sit still. So prep what you need to be in one place for a whole class. Also, just because you’re on campus doesn’t mean that COVID doesn’t exist. So please still be mindful and careful; having a party because ‘it’s college’ isn’t worth putting anyone else at risk.

What was the most important lesson you learned in your freshman year?

If something makes you unhappy, it doesn’t matter how much time/money you’ve put into it, stop. Marie Kondo that shit. Does it spark joy? Just because you did something in high school doesn’t mean you have to keep doing it.

Any additional advice?

Google the sunk cost fallacy.

Pictured: Ben Blankenship

CURRENT

Ben Blankenship, Class of 2022

Do you have any funny stories from freshman year?

Hendrix used to have not-so-great drainage, so whenever it would rain, areas would start to flood. My freshman year, there was a particularly severe storm which caused the lawn outside Bailey to fill with water. Someone saw this and thought that it would be perfect for kayaking. Seeing a person bring out their kayak and then proceed to row across a field was definitely an interesting sight.

What are some things you didn’t bring with you your freshman year that you wish you had?

If I could go back to the start of my freshman year, I would try to spend more time making my room a relaxing and comfortable place to be. Invest in some better lighting, big rugs, and go crazy with the blankets-- you’d be surprised at the difference it can make in helping you adapt to college life.

What did you bring that ended up being a waste of space in your dorm room?

I brought far too many clothes with me. While I thought it would be nice to give myself options, the “options” ended up just cluttering all of my closet space. My advice would be to find out what clothes you wear the most and leave the rest at home.

What was the most important lesson you learned in your freshman year?

Don’t be afraid to look stupid! Ask questions even at the risk of making a fool of yourself. You’re in college to learn, so don’t feel bad for taking advantage of your resources.

Any additional advice?

Step outside your comfort zone, foster relationships with your peers and professors, and always find time for yourself.

Pictured:Gifty Agana UPPERCLASSMEN

Gifty Agana, Class of 2021

Do you have any funny stories from freshman year?

Freshman year, I accidentally called a professor by the wrong title in an email (I had never sent so many emails in my life). I thought it was the end of my life. But it wasn’t, and I have made many more silly mistakes since then. As a freshman, it felt SO big.

What are some things you didn’t bring with you your freshman year that you wish you had?

I wish I had brought scissors (trust me) and definitely a more open mind to try new things.

What did you bring that ended up being a waste of space in your dorm room?

I brought a coffee maker, but I am not a big coffee drinker, so it just sat there. I also brought way more clothes than I needed. College shows you which clothes are actually your favorite.

How is remote learning different from in-person learning? What should freshmen watch out for as they make the transition?

Watch out for the college “bubble.” Remember there are people and things outside of college, and you should take a break once a week to go enjoy them by going on a hike to somewhere new or order in from a local business you’ve never been to.

What was the most important lesson you learned in your freshman year?

Have fun!! (but go to class). You have time to figure it all out.