Category: Beltz-Hosek

As the final week of my first semester at college approaches, I cannot help but think about all the ways that I have grown since coming to Geneseo. In a short amount of time, my daily habits and even my outlook on life has changed. I have learned that professors are here to support students and that it is okay to ask for help. In addition, I have been focusing more on grasping the actual content than worrying about grades. College has also helped me to understand things that I never thought about before. In my anthropology class, we are talking about how there is modern-day slavery and its cultural effects. Before coming to college, I never thought about these social and moral issues, but now I realize how important it is to care about things that are bigger than myself. Living on my own has made me more independent by teaching me skills like cooking and cleaning along with a full schedule of classes. Finding the right balance between taking care of myself and keeping up with my schoolwork has been difficult, but college has taught me to manage my time well. The academic part of college was a struggle at first because it was hard to meet new people and start a new educational path with more challenging coursework. However, now that I know what is expected of me and how to effectively manage my time, everything is going better than I could have imagined in August.

In late August, as I said goodbye to my coworkers at the local ice cream shop in my hometown, I expressed to them that I wanted my first semester at college to go by fast. Fearing the unknown and what lay ahead, I simply wanted to jump to winter break, so I could be back home, hanging out with all of my favorite familiar faces. One of my supervisors, Dylan, told me not to wish away the first semester, and that before I knew it, it would be over. Now, looking back at the past 12 weeks, I realize that he was right. 

Although it’s a cliche, time really does fly when you’re having fun. Sure, being a college student is no easy task. There have been times when I’ve been swamped with exams, deadlines, and readings—feeling utterly overwhelmed. I’ve had to learn the importance of time management, as well as choosing to isolate myself in order to be productive. Specifically, I love studying in the Union in the area right outside of Starbucks. This spot reminds me of the coffee shops in my hometown, and I really enjoy the cozy and welcoming atmosphere there. However, despite the stresses, I’ve had the most amazing experience at Geneseo thus far. I made friends that I know will last a lifetime, and I am fortunate enough to spend time with them each and every day. Since we all live on the same floor, any time spent outside of class is spent together—eating meals, hanging out, going to campus events, etc. My professors are kind hearted and understanding, making my adjustment to a college workload so much easier. I’ve grown as a person this fall, as I’ve become increasingly more independent and mature. I cannot wait to see what the future holds as I continue my collegiate journey. I am already looking forward to my second semester as I begin my blocks as an education major, but now I hope time slows down!

Things have gone smoothly since I first arrived on campus in August. Life is good and I can’t complain! I want to highlight some of my favorite little things about Geneseo because the little things are always the most important. Recently, I discovered the peach tea from Starbucks is my new beverage staple; the upstairs of the Union is my go-to study spot; and I just bought some Geneseo sweats that I could easily wear every day of my life. The sunsets still amaze me and so does the granola from Red Jacket. I even added a new favorite cereal to my collection: Chocolate Chex. If you haven’t tried it yet, I promise you’ll get hooked! Currently, I’m creating my schedule for next semester, and I’m eager to take some psychology and sociology courses which are right up my alley! In high school, these were the types of classes that engaged me the most, so I typically do well in them. Even though I feel like the fall semester flew right by, I’m excited for a change in my routine and to explore more of my interests both in and out of the classroom.

I’ve found that appreciating the little things allows you to gain perspective on the bigger things, those aspects of life that can be challenging or a major struggle. For example, people are not lying when they tell you college classes require more time and effort than high school. Your grades might start out a little lower than they were in high school, and some classes may have you staying up way past your normal bedtime, but that’s okay. Thanksgiving break is around the corner, and even though I love the people I’ve met here and cannot wait to spend the rest of the year with them, it feels like it’s been forever since I’ve seen family and friends. On the one hand, I’ve enjoyed the freedom of living on my own and being more of an independent adult, but I cannot wait to be with my parents again for the week. I miss them and small pleasures like being able to light a candle or driving my car. Going back to Rochester and the house I grew up in gives me a nostalgic feeling like no other. Being away at school has made me value these relationships because it’s easy to take people for granted when you see them every day. I’m also ready for a break because the amount of essays and tests I’ve had the last couple of weeks are wearing me down physically and mentally. I’m looking forward to the chance to relax and recharge at home.

Overall, I feel like the adjustment as a first-year has gone really well. College is the perfect combination of the autonomy and responsibilities of adulthood mixed with the fun of still being a kid!

I started out the first month of college feeling miserable. At the end of my high school career and throughout the summer after my acceptance to Geneseo, I was considering not attending college due to a general lack of motivation. I was surrounded by friends older than me, all of whom were complaining about their current collegiate education and challenging experiences due to the pandemic that has affected everyone’s lives one way or another, which deterred me from the thought of attending college for four years. All I knew was that I did not want to live my parents’ static, suburban life and miss out on a truly meaningful life experience, so I changed my major and added a minor. Now I have nothing but hope for the future. I realized that going to college allowed me to find out what I truly loved to do while making strong ties with people in a similar situation. 

Nervousness is the most normal feeling to have shooting through your veins as your parents leave you in an unfamiliar environment. Now you have to figure everything out on your own. My first night, I piled the stuffed animals that smelled like memories of home as I tried to sleep, the late August heat making me as uncomfortable as a person can get. I quickly got used to the harder dorm bed as I softened up to my new “family” members in my suite. The classes felt familiar because of the classroom-like setup, and I was reassured by my  professors’ ability to engage their students in newly discovered subjects, like a beloved teacher would in my small high school. 

The campus activities that occur throughout the school year give us a welcome break from exams, labs, tutor sessions, and essays. We’re able to talk to strangers every day without feeling awkward because we share so much in common as college students. College is also a place where you’re encouraged to try new things. I decided to play rugby, which is a new sport to me, a month and a half into my college career, and even though it has been nerve-racking, I’m happy with my choice to step out of my comfort zone. The coach knows what he’s talking about and my teammates have been nothing but helpful and supportive. My experience so far at Geneseo is full of highs and lows, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

I have never related to that quote as much as I do now. Even though I am steadily getting into the rhythm of college, that doesn’t mean that the adjustment to college life was easy. Figuring out where classes are, finding new friends, and managing my time were some of the more challenging parts of the adjustment, but the overwhelming support from the campus community has really helped me. Originally, I didn’t know anyone else from my high school who was also attending Geneseo, and even though I was assured by past teachers that I would make friends when I got onto campus, I still had anxieties about it. To be honest, if orientation was not a thing, I would not have made as many friends as I did. There were so many opportunities to meet the different people in my group, and the number of games we played and the packed schedule made the experience so much better.

If I were to give any advice to a shy person starting a new job, club, or anything else, it’s to take the opportunities given to you and make the best out of them. Going through things alone may sound like an easier route, but in the end, being in the same boat with like-minded people is so much better.

Academics has its ups and downs: you excel in one class and struggle in another, or you do well at the beginning of the semester but poorly at the end, or the other way around. Writing has always come easy to me; however, English classes are a little difficult due to the fact that I’m much better at free writing than analyzing other people’s work. The same goes for mathematics; there are factors that are more complex than others, and if I don’t understand the material, I can get lost for a decent amount of time.

Studying is also a major component in academic success, but it’s never been a straightforward process from my perspective. It’s not because I can’t focus, or I have no patience, because I do. It’s just that studying never really helped me like it helps other people. Whenever I study, I end up second-guessing myself. I start thinking something is right when it’s wrong, or I completely disregard what I already learned and end up confusing myself. I retain the information well, and I understand what I’m being taught, but it just feels like I’m lacking somewhere. I need to find a way to study that works for me, so I can reach my full potential. I’ve only been at Geneseo for a few months, but it’s obvious that high school and college are very different and yet very similar. College has much more freedom and campus is an all-around unique environment from high school, but they’re both places of higher learning where I can excel and further my knowledge. I chose Geneseo because it’s a smaller school compared to others that I looked at, and even though the adjustment will take time, Geneseo seems like a great fit for me.

My college experience has been good so far. On the first day after moving in, I met Gianna, who has become one of my closest friends. We were both the first people in line to get food at Mary Jemison and didn’t know who to sit with, so we ended up sitting next to each other. It was funny because my roommate, Lila, came and sat with us, too, and thought Gianna was my twin because we look similar. Moments later, my actual twin, Ally, came over to the table after Lila learned that Gianna and I weren’t related! Like with any sibling, being an identical twin has its ups and downs, but we always knew we wanted to go to college together. Even though we’d be on the same campus, we needed to spread our wings and decided not to live together. We have both met amazing friends, like Gianna and Lila, which has made the adjustment to college life so much easier. But this adjustment has also been challenging because I have a hard time being social with people. It’s just how I am, and it’s difficult for me to open up to new people since I’ve always had a twin I could talk to. I like it when people come up to me first, say hi, and introduce themselves, but this doesn’t always happen, so it’s easier just to stick with the people I already know, like my twin. But only having your twin sister as a friend is less than ideal. Ally and I know everything about each other, but still find out new things about each other all the time. One funny example is that I recently found out that Ally hates the pillow she brought to college! Hitting it off with Gianna and Lila right off the bat was a relief because I have a great roommate and a great friend! For all of orientation, Ally and I never left each other’s side, but sharing a room with Lila and hanging out with Gianna is like what I’ve done with my sister all my life. Seeing what campus life is like with someone other than Ally is nice, but I love to be with her, too. Thankfully, we’re all friends and the four of us hang out together. Coming to Geneseo has been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made and we’re truly happy here! Going to college with your sibling is not what people typically do because they’re always around each other, but Ally and I are a bit out of the ordinary. We’re twins and we love being together , so if you think you’re seeing double on campus, it’s okay because there are two of us!

For someone who struggles to enjoy the unknown, for someone who doesn’t like taking many risks, change can be scary. Being a transfer student, I was very nervous about attending Geneseo. I knew the school was great for academics and athletics, but I worried that I wouldn’t feel comfortable, or that I would struggle with the adjustment to a smaller campus. I knew one of my suitemates and the softball coach before coming here, which was exciting and a huge relief, but I was nervous about almost everything else. What if I get lost on my way to class and show up late? What if my roommate and I don’t get along? What if I don’t make the softball team? What if I don’t like it at all? I was very anxious and unnerved this fall, but after being at Geneseo for almost half a semester, I can say that I made the right decision to transfer.

Since the first day, I’ve been welcomed by so many people on campus. From professors to coaches, to teammates, to people just walking by. Everyone at Geneseo has been extremely friendly and kind to me since I’ve arrived. My suitemates, my roommate, and I have dinner together every night and enjoy sitting in our common room and catching up on our day. My softball teammates and I go to lift three times a week and usually get together every weekend for some fun team bonding at their off-campus house. Geneseo makes it easy to socialize. Whether you want to meet a friend at Starbucks, or at the Union, the gazebo for the beautiful sunset, or on Main Street for a meal, you’re always able to see the people you want to see. The social adjustment to college has gone more smoothly than I could have imagined because this campus is full of friendly students, faculty, and staff who are more than willing to help those of us who are new.

My experience so far regarding academics has been amazing. As a biology major on a pre-med track, I knew I was transferring to a school that would challenge me. My dream is to attend Emory University in Georgia for graduate school, and become a physician assistant in pediatric emergency and trauma medicine, and Geneseo’s biology program will make that dream a reality. The program is ranked one of the best in the country, and I’m lucky enough to be a part of it. Though certainly far from light work, the content I’m learning, the classes I’m taking, and the supportiveness of the professors in my field are phenomenal. I feel confident in my ability to be successful in the future, thanks to the work I’m doing now.

As far as being an athlete at Geneseo goes, I couldn’t be happier. I’m a member of the Geneseo varsity softball team, and the success of my team—and others at Geneseo—is just another reason why this college stood out to me as a transfer. My coach pushes me to be the best I can be not only on the field and in the weight room, but also in the classroom. The coaches are available for more than just practices and games; they encourage their athletes to go to office hours, and they check in on them periodically to ensure they’re doing well in their classes and their mental health. My teammates and captains have also been my biggest support system. Any time I run into trouble, whether it’s a bad practice, a bad grade, or just having a bad day in general, my teammates are the first people I turn to for help. Everyone gets along and supports each other, and we spend at least one day a week together as a team. Having the support of a team and coaching staff is such a game-changer in my academic life, and Geneseo has given me some of my best friends through softball.

Transferring to Geneseo was a big risk. I was very anxious about taking such a leap of faith, even though I knew this was the best place for me. Since being here, I have made incredible friends, I have built relationships with my professors that will help me achieve my goals, I have played softball with supportive coaches and teammates, and I have faced the daunting challenge of being a biology major. I cannot express my gratitude enough, and I’m excited to see what the next two years hold!

When move-in day arrived, I was excited. I woke up that morning at around 5, showered, and got ready for the day. I was a little suspicious when I had to drive up onto the sidewalk to move into my dorm, but campus police said it was the right way, so I drove up anyway. My parents and I were the first ones there, so it was pretty quiet and easy, but I was nervous—not to move in, though. I was nervous because of my parents. My parents are divorced and don’t get along. I was worried that my day would be spent trying to avoid conflicts and resolve others. But the process went smoothly and soon I said my goodbyes to my dad and mom. I was excited but also sad, and I couldn’t help feeling that Geneseo had come between my family and me. Later that same day, my younger brother Broderick took his driver’s test. I was extremely upset that I couldn’t celebrate with him when he got his license. My brother has always been a really important person in my life. We were together through everything, and now I couldn’t be there for one of his biggest milestones. I was upset by this, but I knew he would have other people to celebrate with.

I avoided my room for most of the day. I wanted to give my roommate space for when she moved in with her family. I spent the day walking around campus. I was optimistic about my time at Geneseo, hoping to meet new people and experience different things, but I knew I didn’t want to change who I was. Yes, I missed my family but my curiosity about my first semester at Geneseo clouded my sadness. Throughout the rest of that first week, I appreciated the activities Geneseo provided and I met a couple of friends in my orientation group and my dorm. But it was also hard trying to meet people; we were all in gigantic groups and I have never been an outgoing person. I mostly kept to myself and talked only when spoken to. I started to regret being here and not at home.

One of the clubs I was excited to join was club soccer. I have played soccer for 14 years and it’s been one of my many joys in life. Through this sport, I was hoping to meet more people like me. Initially, I was happy to be on the team and even made the A team. Yet as the weeks went on, my excitement started to decrease along with my mood. I wasn’t all that eager about soccer. I would go and get some good exercise, but I still hadn’t connected with the girls, which just made me miss my old soccer team. I missed home, too. It was really difficult for me most days to wake up and know I wouldn’t be able to see anyone from home. The only thing that kept me motivated was the weekends because I knew I’d be able to go home and be with my family. Some weekdays my dad, mom, and siblings would come to see me, especially the times when I was struggling the most. However, my club soccer games were also always on the weekends, which had its benefits and its downfalls. With games on the weekend, I knew I’d have time to complete my assignments for the upcoming week, but then I didn’t have the opportunity to go home to see my family, my boyfriend, and my friends. At least one of my parents and sometimes my siblings were always at my games, which was life-saving for me. It felt normal and freeing to talk with them and be happy. On the fateful day of Saturday, September 25th, my club soccer team had our first home game, and everything changed.

The game began perfectly. It was the first game of the season where I started, and I felt comfortable in my position at left mid. During the first half, everything seemed to click: I had a couple of good moves, was in the right spots at the right times, had good runs and good passes, and I played a majority of the half. It was thrilling and I felt really good. When the second half began, I started the half, and when I got pulled out, I was quickly put back in after one of my teammates had an injury on the field. I remember getting onto the field and having a breakaway right off the bat. I got around the first girl, dribbled about half field, and just as I was about to pass the ball into the middle of the field, a girl on the opposing team collided with me from behind. My knee gave away, twisted, and popped, and soon I was on the ground. At that moment, I felt a range of emotions: my knee was blistering in pain and all I could think of was that I couldn’t walk, I couldn’t put any weight on my knee, and I couldn’t drive! I couldn’t drive HOME! I’d be unable to walk to my classes, to the dining hall, to anywhere. As soon as I was carried off of the field by my teammates, I was not only writhing in pain, but my head was spinning. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to go home again. I would have to recover without my family. I already felt isolated and alone at school, but with what I soon learned is an ACL injury, I would have to spend my time here in pain as well. However, things worked out, and I was allowed to go home to recover.

I feel relaxed being at home around family and friends and similar surroundings. However, I know I will probably have to return to campus one day soon. Some of my courses are challenging, but I know I am capable of doing the work, and I appreciate my professors who have helped me through this ordeal. I wanted to like Geneseo, but after my injury, I feel as though this place just isn’t for me. I plan on transferring to a college closer to my hometown in the spring. Nevertheless, I’m happy that I was able to experience life away from home at Geneseo, even if it was only for a couple of months, and I realize now how brave and resilient I am.

College was something that I didn’t think would actually happen for me. I mean, all of my siblings went to college, my parents went, and so did the rest of my extended family, but whenever I pictured “college” for myself, I just hit a roadblock. Like something massively significant was going to happen and stop me from going. And it almost did.

About two weeks before August 26th, move-in day, I began experiencing symptoms of Covid-19. I got a test, and sure enough, it was positive. Several things ran through my mind:

• Does my family have it too?
• Is it a false negative?
• Can I still go to college on time?

Yes. No and no.

I was told by my county’s health department I could move in on August 28th, which was a Saturday, but it also meant I would miss orientation and moving in with the rest of my suitemates.

When I got to campus I immediately felt at home. The move-in helpers gave me all of the help I needed to make sure I was settled into my dorm smoothly. They told me about all of the activities that I hadn’t missed out on and I became hopeful that I would still have my chance to meet new people and make these memories going to college is notorious for.

My dad was the only one able to move me in since the rest of my family members were still quarantining. It was difficult moving in with just the two of us because on August 26th, I cut my finger on my mini fridge and got 15 stitches. Just my luck.

As I walked into my room, I saw my roommate fast asleep the wrong way on her bed. All of my nerves disappeared as they were replaced with tranquility and laughter. My roommate woke up and without thinking, helped me move in. I met the rest of my suitemates and while I was nervous at first, they made me feel welcome just by coming out of their rooms and introducing themselves. Within just a few hours I knew they would become some of my best friends.

Since then, we’ve done everything together:

• Club fair
• Carnival
• Bowling
• Playing pool
• Movie nights
• Late night U-Hots runs
• And many other things!

“Club fair” was the most important event because a few of my suitemates and I have joined a club called “Relay for Life,” which helps raise awareness and money to end cancer. We get to ‘table’ in the union to promote our cause. We also get to do walks to raise more awareness for breast cancer, host trivia nights, calming craft nights, and, of course, the actual relay that’s held on April 30th.

This club means so much to me as it was the reason I wanted to come to this school in the first place. When I was 10 years old, I spoke at a relay on campus. After I spoke, I broke down in tears. I didn’t want my siblings to go to college and I didn’t want to leave my parents. Afterall,, being the youngest made it harder to leave my parents empty nested. However, my family calmed me down by bringing to my attention that my godfather and uncle went to Geneseo. They told me that they had the time of their lives and while it was hard to leave their families, they were only an hour away from them and it was easy to visit whenever they felt homesick. Hearing this, I immediately fell in love with this school. They brought up amazing points that I wasn’t sure I would be able to experience at any other school. Their guidance helped me immensely when it became time for me to apply to colleges.

While there will be some things I adore about Geneseo, there are some other things that I don’t fancy all that much, and that’s okay. I was bummed about Letchworth Dining Hall not being open because I heard that it is the Red Jacket of the North Side where I live.

My experience here at Geneseo so far has been nothing short of amazing. From the sunsets to the mechanical bull, I will never regret choosing this place as my ‘home away from home’ for the next four years.