Advice from a Senior – 12 Things I Learned in 12 Quarters
Written by Kelsey Vickers. Graphic by Avery Melhado.
Now that I’m a senior, I don’t feel afraid, lost, or unsure moving through life in college like I used to. Those feelings have been redirected towards postgrad. It seems humans have a tendency of doing that; as we pass through a phase of life and finally start to feel comfortable, we start all over again. Elementary school, middle school, high school, college, first job, parenthood–the list goes on. I think that’s why those who know true peace are most often elderly; they don’t have any more phases to fear.
It was only three years ago that I was right where the freshmen reading this are now: insecure and afraid I made a terrible decision, but also incredibly excited. I had so many dreams of what my years at SCAD would look like. In some ways, I got exactly what I wanted. In others, I could not have predicted what was to come if I tried (and I tried).
The majority of my college experience was good, but I know my journey would have been so much easier to navigate if I had someone in my life to tell me which way to go, or at least which path not to take. My parents helped me in every way they could, but as the eldest daughter and first in my family to graduate college, most of the answers had to come from me. I hope my missteps can help someone else find their footing.
- Don’t fall victim to sunk-cost fallacy.
I changed my major twice, and both times I did it, I thought I ruined my life. Now, I’m in a major that I completely align with. I think I would’ve enjoyed the exploration more if I accepted the possibility that it wouldn’t last forever. Don’t let the possibility of the wrong decision or wasted time stop you from taking chances. Even if it isn’t the “right” decision, the experience will mold who you are.
- Don’t wait.
Many of the things I waited to do until my sophomore and junior year, I can’t imagine my college experience without. I let the fear of difficulty, embarrassment, and taking up space prevent me from trying. But now, they are sacred traditions and my most cherished memories. I wish I had more time with them.
- Join major-related clubs ASAP.
It’s important to build relationships with your peers, and clubs are the easiest way to do that. Plus, the sooner you join a club, the sooner you can get leadership opportunities. Your future self will thank you for joining when you work on your resume.
- Enjoy Savannah.
Most of us don’t have much time here, and this city has so many events, restaurants, and beautiful sights to offer. Don’t let yourself get so caught up in assignments that you graduate and realize you never went to Forsyth Park.
- Take advantage of your SCAD student status.
Go to the unlimited amount of workout classes SCADfit offers and events like Film Fest. Utilize your free Adobe membership and SCAD discount at local shops. You won’t have access to this much “free” stuff ever again. Don’t let it go to waste.
- Plan your classes ahead of time.
Most classes are offered only during specific quarters. Some aren’t even offered every year. Use the degree planner on MYSCAD and decide what electives you are interested in now so you don’t miss them.
- Ask questions.
Since I started at SCAD, my hand has been perpetually raised in the air. I’ve met so many people who are afraid to ask questions because they think they’ll look dumb. I haven’t been called dumb (to my face at least) for asking a question, but I have been thanked for it, by both my peers and professors. It helps everyone around you have clarity and move confidently through the class.
- Try different dining halls.
When I lived at The Hive, I thought I was stuck with Amigos Nuevos and Cafe at the Hive for every meal, but venturing out to other dorms opens up your options. Take a trip to Victory Village for delicious pasta, toasted sandwiches, and dumplings. Go to Montgomery House for a nice selection of Asian cuisine at Carnival. Your taste buds will thank you for it.
- Bring an umbrella with you everywhere you go.
I’m not from the South, and the storms here are unlike anything I have ever experienced. It starts with only one drop of rain, and within seconds, it’s a downpour flooding the streets. Stay prepared to shield yourself and your art from the rain. If you don’t feel like lugging an umbrella around every day, at least check the weather app every morning.
- Don’t let comparison plague your work.
It is natural and common to compare your work to your classmates’, but don’t let that manifest into fear that stops you from creating. Turn that comparison into inspiration.
- Talk to strangers.
We’ve been told the opposite advice for most of our lives, but community is essential in this complicated time, and you can find it in the most unsuspecting of places. My roommate today was once the stranger I was assigned to room with freshman year. My other close friends were once random girls I sat next to in class. Without these strangers, tears would have washed away all the belly laughs and late night talks that made my college years meaningful.
- Don’t worry so much.
I know it’s easier said than done, but my past self had so many questions and fears, and everything ended up more than okay. I wish I could tell her that. Now, my future self is calling back to me saying the same. Enjoy this transformational, inspiring phase of life while you are in it.
