Bridging the gap: Seniors provide wisdom while freshmen offer fresh perspectives

Illustration by Yana Samoylova

As the 2024 school year rolls around, freshmen settle into their new lives while seniors prepare themselves for their post-college careers. An annual change that is daunting and exciting for both classes has presented itself once again. 

What connects these two classes, despite being at opposite ends of their college journeys, is the shared experience of navigating significant transitions. The freshmen get comfortable with their roommates and classes, while the seniors arrange for the next critical chapter of their lives. 

Although age and experience in college life separate them, the advice that they can offer each other is surprisingly beneficial. This week, The Panther interviewed freshmen and seniors alike about their advice for one another. 

As the school year sets off, the class of ‘28 is more equipped than ever to provide advice to those preparing for an even bigger change.

Post-Grad Adaptation 

Freshman animation and visual effects major Ruben Bell said friendship is vital for a smooth adaptation to post-grad life.

“Stay in touch with the people that you care about and you still want in your life,” Bell told The Panther. “If they mean something to you and are a substantial part of your growing up, make space for them in your life as you move on to your next chapter.”

Bell said that, in their experience, the occasional message or Instagram reel is not a “substantial way to maintain a full friendship.” Even if it’s just a quick coffee when you're in town, staying connected with the people that matter to you is necessary after college.

Remaining passionate about the things you love and using them to drive your goals is something Bell advised for seniors who might feel lost as they begin to use their degrees for the first time. Simply reconnecting with your hobbies and interests is the best way to start. 

“Just keep doing the things you love, like art has always been a big grounding tool for me,” Bell said. “So I did a lot of drawing, and I did a lot of writing, and returning to things that were important to me at the start of high school, so I can remember them as I was ending high school.” 

Staying Confident and Curious 

Bell told the Panther that the senior class is one to be admired. They are confident and passionate, a trait that is extremely valuable in the post-grad world. Bell said that they “care a lot less” about other people’s opinions, a quality that shouldn’t be lost after graduation.

“That's something I really admire, is just kind of being true to yourself and who you are,” said Bell. “So that's something that I hope people carry on, is just not feeling pressured to conform or to appease other people, just being yourself and finding people that respect that.”

The Panther also received anonymous advice from a freshman who thinks remembering all the growth that's been done over one’s four years in college is extremely important in preparing for the future.

“Don’t forget how far you have come!” the freshman said. “Oftentimes during the height of graduating, getting jobs, moving places, etc., I feel seniors put too much pressure on themselves.” 

After reviewing some of the tips the seniors received from the freshmen, The Panther sat down with seniors who had advice of their own. These students have experienced it all, from eating at the dining hall daily to living with roommates during COVID-19. Their tips and tricks may come in handy for anxious freshmen. 

Navigating Roommates and Making Friends

Sharing a space with strangers for the first time is a truly shocking experience. Senior communications major Taylor Green told The Panther that communication will make all the difference. 

“Communicate with your roommates about what works with you and what you don't like,” Green said. “I feel like that's going to be the biggest key to being able to live with someone else.” 

Coexisting with a roommate and being best friends are very different approaches to dorm life. Matisse Kellner, a senior creative producing major, said it is wise to set boundaries and not get too close to the people you live with.

“Don't make your roommate your best friend, because I think that personally, that does not go well simply because sharing a space and sharing your life is a lot to share,” Kellner told The Panther. “Sometimes the lines get blurry, and it's hard to keep boundaries.” 

Green said being open to friendships outside of your living situation can be helpful, as well. Some of her best friends came from classes and extracurriculars.

The Caf

Eating breakfast, lunch and dinner at the dining hall is a challenging change. Green and Kellner both have dietary restrictions that made picking meals difficult. They advised that freshmen make the most out of what the caf has to offer.

“I was actually gluten-free, which made my experience very difficult,” Green said. “I would mainly make salads, or their soup was always good, or the grilled chicken.” 

Mixing and matching is another easy way to make a meal you enjoy with what is provided. Kellner said she often chose elements of different meals to create something new.

College Classes 

It is well known that adjusting from high school curriculum to college courses is a transition that isn’t always smooth. Holding yourself accountable and staying up to date with assignments is the best way to do things, Green told The Panther.

“I think a big thing is staying organized. I remember my freshman year I had a planner. I was doing everything by the book,” she said.

Another piece of advice Green advised to the freshman class was always to remember that your professors are on your side and want to see you succeed. 

“A lot of the classes are smaller, so just getting to know your professor is huge,” Green said. “I remember I loved talking to my teachers and just really building a good relationship with them.”

Whether you’re a freshman saying hello to this new chapter or a senior saying goodbye, Bell said you should never forget that “you’re ready.”