Semester Reflections

Semester 1: Expectations vs Reality

When I first decided that the University of Maryland was the place that I should attend, I felt content with my decision. Although I still had a lingering curiosity about attending Howard University and being a part of the HBCU experience, I felt that I could be happy at UMD with its multitude of resources, organizations, clubs, and programs. I felt my interdisciplinary love for learning could be elevated and explored to the greatest extent. With the diverse community, I felt I would be able to broaden my perspective and be surrounded by new people. I had visited the campus many times as a teenager while my sister was a student here and the familiarity made it feel like a place where I could thrive, so I was very eager to start my journey as a college student. 

However, my transition into University life was not as smooth as I expected. I had a hard time at the beginning of the school year. Like many college students, I missed home. Feeling alone, missing my friends, and the comfort of my old life and routine. Although I was meeting new people, going to new places, and exploring subjects that I never had access to in High School, it was both an exciting and overwhelming experience. I felt distant and disconnected from school, having a tough time acclimating and adjusting to my new environment. I even went home more frequently than I would have liked, sometimes due to illness or simply the need for emotional support and to be with my family. I also struggled with the fast-paced environment and workload that college brings. Being a student with accommodations, I had to learn and stress the importance of advocating and navigating college life with accommodations for the first time, which was difficult and frustrating.  

But over time, I started to adjust and become more comfortable with my new environment and the experience of trying new things on my own. I began spending more time on campus and became more engaged with various organizations and all the campus had to offer. I started attending meetings at SEE (Student Entertainment Events), making friends with fellow creatives and individuals who share my passion for entertainment and business. I also had a moment of uncertainty when I switched my major, but after some reflection, decided my original path was the best fit, at least for now. I also changed my career aspirations about 100 times and although initially I felt I wanted to work in entertainment, I am now considering a career in Law, but also who knows that could change next week. I wrote my first piece for The Observer. I am excited to see it published and share my thoughts with the broader campus community, I am very proud of it. I am also a proud member of the Muslim Student Association, where I have met many lovely individuals who enjoy good conversation. This has helped me build a strong sense of community on campus. 

I have also found my Art Scholars Colloquium deeply enriching. I find myself thoroughly engaged with the fascinating and broad concept of Art and the significant role it plays within society. Art is universal and is told in many different mediums: through writing, poetry, music, and more I have learned the universal significance and beauty of Art. Learning about the role of art in society has expanded my perspective, and I find myself excited about what I am learning every week. I have also started making friends in Colloquium, and I love the creative and welcoming environment of my class.  

One of my favorite aspects of UMD is its vibrant campus life. I have enjoyed attending movie screenings of The Hoff, grabbing ice cream at Maryland, or hanging out with my friends at the Y.  Each experience has helped me forge new connections and build great friendships. Although there are still moments when I feel overwhelmed, I have come to love the diverse and inclusive environment of UMD and look forward to what the day brings. 

Looking ahead, I am excited for the future. I plan to continue getting involved with different organizations and exploring all that UMD has to offer. I have learned so much, not only in my studies, and the campus but also about myself. I do not regret my decision to come to the University of Maryland, and I am excited for what the coming semesters and future holds for me as a Maryland Art Scholars student.