Every year, Bakersfield College opens its doors to a new group of students who want to continue their education after receiving their high school diploma or it’s equivalent.
Being a college freshman for the first time can be tough. Many students start their first college semester right after their high school graduation, while others decide to begin during the Winter semester, like Flor A. Rodriguez did, a BC freshman majoring in liberal arts.
“I was going to start school last semester, but I really needed some time off after so many years in high school,” she said, “I am not really a ‘school girl,’ so I have to take little steps while coming back to school because coming from a high school to a college is a big change.”
On the other hand, students like Jose Perez, a science major freshman, who started college right after graduating from Golden Valley High School said that “even though college is really different form high school, it’s simply better. Here in college we choose the schedule that best works for us, and the classes as well. At first I was a little nervous, but with time I got used to it.”
During the first weeks of college, it is possible that many incoming freshmen could have different impulses and encounter a different variety of experiences.
It is during this time that they usually compare and examine the differences between college and their previous school, which most of the time it’s high school.
“On the first week of school, I honestly experienced something new, which I hated so much. It took me more than 20 minutes just to find a parking spot every single day, which is why I was always late to class,” said Rodriguez.
“Now I know that I have to come to school a lot earlier than when I was in high school because it is a serious disaster when it comes to parking,” Rodriguez continued. “I seriously recommend every student who goes to college to go as early as they can so they can find a good parking spot.”
Along with Rodriguez’s recommendation to students, there are many things new college freshmen should keep in mind when they are attending college for the first time.
According to Nancy Guidry, BC reference librarian, participating in school events and activities is very important for students, especially for those who are just beginning their first year.
“Students who participate in campus activities from the beginning are a lot more likely to succeed and have a better chance of higher education,” said Guidry. “Being involved in our campus activities is a great thing because it’s a good way for new students to learn a lot more about what’s convenient for their careers.
“I would really suggest everyone to visit their library often because I’ve noticed that many students spend hours and hours at home trying to do research, when in reality it would be easier for them to come here because we are all here to help students succeed and save time and frustration.”