MEDIA, SELF AND 2URVIV4L

It is no secret that this year has been anything but normal. With the pandemic came challenges, stress, hardship and change. In January of 2020, I got into my dream school- University of Maryland, College Park. My entire life I waited to read those words: "Congratulations! You have been admitted." Over the years I had spent so much time on campus, visiting my brother, exploring and attending sporting events. Every time I would picture myself having those experiences, but as a student. COVID-19 had different plans. While I was still fortunate enough to come and live on campus, it has been so different than I imagined. I was always so excited to have a roommate, and to meet so many new people. I have met some great people, but with the campus density only being 35%, the campus was not as busy as normal and it was a lot harder to meet people. Also, one of my main attractions to UMD was sporting events: I was so excited to experience the school spirit and cheering from the student section. I have been a huge Maryland men’s basketball fan forever, going to many home games each season. The atmosphere in the Xfinity Center is so amazing, with the fans cheering, music playing and the extreme Maryland pride. And, finally, the obvious- taking all of my classes online. This is certainly not what I pictured when I thought of my college experience. The pandemic made me nervous that my social and academic aspects of college would be insufficient. However, I have been trying to stay positive and not stress- whether it be spending time with friends safely, exercising, exploring campus, and taking advantage of activities offered by teachers and the school. Having socially-distant meals with friends, going to Eppley Recreation Center and taking long walks around campus, are all ways I have immersed myself into the UMD experience. I am very fortunate for the opportunity to be on campus and for the community Media, Self, and Society has given me. The Scholars program has introduced me to so many new people, taught me about current events, and helped me get acclimated to life as a college freshman. Not only are my fellow students welcoming and inviting, I have felt so comfortable and encouraged by the instructors. I know not everyone was able to live on campus and fully begin their college journey like I was. While it may not have been exactly what I envisioned for myself, coming to campus has allowed me to grow as a person, become more independent, meet amazing people, and feel prepared for the rest of my time here at the University of Maryland. I am hoping to further my education in criminology and criminal justice, sociology, racial injustice, the media and society. I know the University of Maryland is the best place to do that. I am extremely excited to see what the future holds. Follow me and my freshman year experience through my photographs placed below.