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Freshman Class Spotlight
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April 11, 2011
Hey guys,
I’m back to keep you all updated and informed! Well, as far as us here in the college world, our semester is coming to a close and finals are upon us…-_- …woo…haha. But this is a critical time where we truly see how the progress is coming along when it comes to majors.
I remember back when I was in high school, it was one of the first years of implementing a new procedure which we were told we must choose a major. This forced me to think long and hard about what I could see what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. It almost didn’t seem fair placing such a daunting task on a senior in high school, but the reality was that in a couple of months I would be in college pursing what I would be doing for my future. For me the choice was simple, I chose to major in biology. I have always been fascinated by nature and the different processes of life. It may seem nerdy, but I love watching Discovery Channel specials about sharks and reptiles. I love going to the zoo and aquarium, just to see the different animals and learn new information about them.
Clearly, biology was the right choice for me, but for others this choice may be a little tougher. But I am here to say there is no need to freak out and make a rash decision based on what all of your friends are doing or what seems like will make you the most money or what your parents want from you. Fortunately, I found my passion early on and I am currently pursing it. There will be some of you in the same boat as me but for those of you who are not quite sure what you want to do in your future remember you have four years here at college. Four years is plenty of time to decide, and your academic advisers will definitely help you. Being exposed to such a mind stimulating environment with people who have completely different backgrounds and ideals will definitely mold you into that person you wonder about when you day dream about the future.
Just remember for your major make sure to do research on what it is that you want to spend your future doing…it’s your future!!! Check out a list of the majors offered by the College of Arts and Sciences. Well, I have to go study for my finals. I’ll talk to you guys again soon. Wish me luck!
March 23, 2011
Hey Everyone,
Today I will be letting you guys know what to expect this summer when you all go through orientation. As I said in my previous blog, I actually had the honor this past summer of being an Orientation Team Leader, otherwise known as a OTL, and was able to work with all the incoming first year students (i.e. you guys). There is so much that goes on during orientation but no need to fret; hopefully with this blog you will be fully prepared when you go for your session.
To begin with the duller side, you should expect to get a lot of important information. At the time, it may not seem like it pertains to you but I promise that at one point there will be a situation where you will need something that you heard during the various information sessions. So make sure you pay attention and take good notes! Also expect to have a day filled with meeting with your OTL and staying on a very strict time schedule. As much as it stinks and we would love just to be relaxed with you guys, it is necessary for the OTLs to stay on such a schedule so you get the most out of orientation.
Next, make sure that you are prepared. When I say this, it kind of has multiple meetings. The first would be making sure that you have all of your paper work turned in (housing, immunization, meal plan, financial aid, etc.) or at least have them close to being complete. And the second, surprisingly enough, is making sure that you are prepared for the actual orientation. I’ll admit when I attended my orientation three years ago I was not fully prepared as far as packing the right clothes or a pillow or bed sheets….good one, Brandon! But definitely make sure that you bring the appropriate clothes, bed sheets, a towel, toiletries, and anything else you think you would need if you are sleeping over somewhere else, but this also doesn’t mean over pack. You are only in session for two days--no need to bring the whole wardrobe.
But last and most important expect to have a blast!!! This is a new chapter in your lives and there is no reason to hold back! When you hear people say that college was the best years of their lives there is a reason for that. In college you can be whoever you want to be and nobody will judge you for that. You can forget all of the high school drama and start anew; how many times can you do that in your life?!? My best advice would be when you are attending orientation this summer, just let go. Being an OTL I’ve seen a lot of people who have regretted not letting go, taking off their “cool caps,” and just being themselves earlier. Do NOT let that be you!!
Hopefully this calms some nerves and helps you guys. But alas, it is time for me to go again. Don’t worry I’ll be back again with some more helpful hints. Have an awesome day everyone!
March 7, 2011
First and foremost I would like to be one of the first to congratulate you on your upcoming graduating and getting accepted in the University of South Florida!!!!! I would like to introduce myself--my name is Brandon Tirado, and I am a sophomore here at USF majoring in biology.
The reason why I choose USF was at first because it was my runner up school. Originally, my plan was to attend the University of Florida, however I was not accepted. Upset, I reluctantly applied to USF and got accepted. Little did I know that this was the best thing that would happen to me. I attended my orientation over the summer and decided that I was going to make the most of my experience here. Best decision. Ever. As I went through orientation I was inspired by my OTL to strive for the most and never miss an opportunity. Doing just that I am currently, I am involved with Orientation as an Orientation Team Leader (or OTL) and different organizations on campus such as Latin American Student Association (LASA), Beef Studs and many more.
Hopefully, some of you guys are able to relate to my story and find inspiration, but that’s it for now. No need to worry though, you’ll be hearing from me soon enough! Have an awesome day guys!