Tips for SMFA First-Years
To be honest, my first year at SMFA at Tufts was a bumpy road. I laughed a lot, cried a lot, but most importantly, I learned countless important life…
I Promise This is Not a Cry For Help
You probably read that title and felt immediate concern, but I promise, I’m okay. I just wanted to use this platform to share some thoughts…
I know I can’t be the only one that feels that their life right now is in constant replay. I do the same things every day- wake up, go to work, go to class, study, sleep, and maybe if I’m lucky, I get to sleep in. Aaaaaand repeat. Living at home while in a pandemic, my college experience has been very bleak and uneventful. And because of this consistent cycle, I feel like I burn out quicker and am less motivated to do well. Do not even get me started on the amount of FOMO and imposter syndrome that seeps into my everyday thoughts.
Sometimes I can’t help but be upset at that cheesy saying that college will be the best four years of your life. If only they were living in an apocalyptic, racially charged, worldwide pandemic.
But don’t get me wrong, so much good can still be found even in our present situation. This repetitive life that we live has allowed us to build a routine and there is strength in that. It means that we’re able to make a routine and stick to it, be regulated, and practice discipline. When the world opens up again, and you’re faced with the 21st-century-problem of going out to eat with your friends on a Wednesday night, or staying in and studying for that Orgo exam you have the next day, you will be more than capable of making the right decision.
So let this be a reminder to you that it’s okay to feel the way you feel. It’s okay to be sad, angry, scared, or alone. But it’s also okay to be inspired and encouraged by what the future may hold. This pandemic won’t last forever (knock on wood), and rest assured you will come out the other end stronger than ever!
And also, lemme plug the Tufts Counseling and Mental Health Services real quick. Tufts provides counseling services for all its students, and it is free for all students who have paid the Health and Wellness fee. CMHS offers individual counseling, same-day help, psychiatric services, and so much more. It is so easy to schedule an appointment, and you are even able to look at the pictures and bios of all the staff so that you can find the right counselor that fits your needs and that you will be the most comfortable talking to. Sometimes it can be helpful to talk out your thoughts and feelings with someone that will listen!
