Congratulations. Your vast intelligence and many fine qualities have proven you up to Dartmouth caliber. You are sure that 2+2=4, and that "party" comes before "studying" in the dictionary, but you are about to enter a new realm where you will have to leave behind many friends and romances. College is about meeting new people and making friendships that will last the rest of your life. We are sure that you are as worried as we were about making those first impressions. We, as your friendly relationship advice columnists, are here to help.
Here are some of the most common fears that many freshman have when coming to Dartmouth. We hope, as you read our advice, that you become less apprehensive about the new journey you are about to embark on.
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As I walk around campus, no one is going to remember my name except the bearded woman janitor. This is a fear that many people have when they arrive at college. By the time you get to Dartmouth, you will have already met friends from your DOC trips. Within minutes of meeting your UGA group, you just may find that soulmate with whom you can go deep sea fishing in the middle of winter. In addition, being on a first name basis with the janitor is not always a bad thing. Who else knows your bathroom secrets and how many times you really wash your underwear. It is important to stay on good terms with them throughout the year. We guarantee that within a week you will already begin to feel that this is your home, and you will begin to notice many shiny happy people walking around hand-in-hand.
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What's all this business about fraternities? Am I really going to be living in a basement for the next three years? Well, luckily, no freshman are allowed to go into frats their freshman fall. (We suggest the side windows.) Though there are other social options, many of the activities on this campus can be found on frat row. They are not just sketchy places where many upperclassman can be found guzzling drinks, but also great places to meet people. Do not be afraid of the distinct odor that will welcome your arrival at these houses. In due time, you will be accustomed to it and you will no longer notice it. At the very least, you will learn many of the letters in the Greek alphabet.
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Throughout high school, my friends and I only listened to New Kids On The Block, they rule!! What if when I get to college, people don't listen to the same sort of cool music? One of the great things about Dartmouth is it's diversity. With over 1000 people in your grade, the chances are good of finding another person that shares your love of Donnie, Joey, Jordan et al. You could even start a club if you want, though we hope that it won't compete with Cheesecake Lovers Anonymous. You don't want to get on their bad side.
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My roommate is going to be a transvestite! Your roommate, a transvestite? Maybe she or he just likes to get dressed up for theme parties. And ... Maybe he or she goes to them everyday of the week. On a more serious note, everyone that gets accepted to Dartmouth has something special about them. It is just a matter of tapping into that "special place." And who knows, you may have just found your new late night chess partner!
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When I was in high school, I often felt like the second Einstein. I'm afraid that when I begin classes here, I am going to feel like Donna Martin on 90210. Do not be afraid. Some people are good at math, and others may be able to write Pig Latin backwards. Don't ever let your classmates get you down, and anyway, even Donna Martin graduates.
We hope that these have given you a taste of Dartmouth. These will be the best four years of your life, we promise. And no matter what, keep your head high and your eyes focused forward. You don't want to trip.
