Choosing a college is very hard for a lot of high school students. There are hundreds of programs, majors, and career paths, there’s also the financial aid aspect, and much more to look out for when selecting the college. For me, it was one of the easiest (and as I sit today and realize, one of the best) choices I have made. As someone whose family members are alumni of Rutgers, I knew I wanted to go to Rutgers and after taking a tour of all campuses, I knew I had found my home at Rutgers–Camden.
Coming into college, I didn’t how it was going to go or what I was going to do. My goal was to get the best college experience I can get out of my time at Rutgers. And so I started attending events that interested me and that is where I met a lot of new people, some like me very new to the campus and some returning or long time members of those organizations. Slowly the talks in the events moved to regular chats outside of the events which then turned into a lifelong friendship. Looking back, I am thankful to have attended all those events through which I was able to meet some of the most incredible people with whom I made lifelong memories. My involvement as a student leader also helped me get more out of my college experience as it taught me valuable skills, I need to be successful in my career, but it also gave me the experience and the opportunity to get to know people well and learn from other people. Being a student leader has also taught me the value of building and maintaining relationships. And of course, the time, bonding and memories made with all my friends are invaluable!!!
My experience inside the classroom was a bit different but rewarding. Sometimes, I had classes on topics that I am very interested in and sometimes that would not be the case. However, what made all of those classes special is the people I took the classes with. Who knew one class together in freshman year would turn into taking multiple classes with the same people I met in freshman year. Meeting those incredible peers who challenged me to put my best self out every day was one of the best parts of my college experience. Ultimately, there are a lot of things I learned from the classes I took but there is an equal number of things I learned from my friends in those classes and countless amount of memories of us laughing, grinding hard to finish assignments, and getting sad and happy over grades. This was truly an amazing experience for me that has forever changed me in a better way.
Looking back at everything, I realize that for me the experience was all about meeting new people, making bonds with them, and having those experiences with different people. My friends, professors, and staff that I interacted with are what made my time at Rutgers special and if I had the option, I would not do it any other way.
Lastly, my advice to all those starting their college life. These 4 years of college are going to be the best 4 years of your life. Get involved, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, and always remember to ask for help whenever you need it.
Written by Abhi K., a Rutgers—Camden Undergraduate Student and Raptor Ambassador.