Gauraangi Gupta/ The Cougar
Hello to all the incoming freshmen! Welcome to UH! Before anything, let me congratulate you on this incredible achievement. Maybe you don’t hear it often, but I know it wasn’t an easy task.
It might seem super confusing and overwhelming right now, but don’t worry, I promise it will get better. I’ll speak from my experience and help you make sense of things a little bit. After all, I am still learning too. Rest assured, the next four years of your life will be the best ones!
I came to UH as an international transfer student from India in 2023. I was scared that I’ll be all alone on a big campus. However, I instantly felt a connection with UH because of how welcoming it was.
That’s exactly how I found my way to The Cougar, to my people. I started as a staff writer and now, this is my third year working as your Editor in Chief. I recently graduated with a major in marketing and will now pursue a master’s in marketing.
College has truly been the best part of my life. It changed me in ways I didn’t even imagine. Over the past three years, I learned a lot of new things and even unlearned a few. My biggest takeaway is to savor every moment, even the bad ones. Believe me, you will end up learning from each one of them.
I tried to make as many friends and connections as I could. However, I also made sure to find “my people” I call them “My board members.” These are the top three people you can always go to anytime, share your problems, achievements and even mistakes with. They can be anyone, your family, roommates or classmates.
College gives you the opportunity to explore and find your true self. You’re free from “parental guidance” and need to start making your own decisions now. Start trusting your instincts. Believe in yourself! Now, considering you’re only human, you’re bound to make mistakes. Don’t let setbacks discourage you.
Think of them as learning experiences. They are important for character development and actually make you realize how you’re not some kid in high-school anymore. You are now a soon-to-be professional, changing and shaping this nation for the better.
Build your own path and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t be afraid of what people will think. From my experience, other people are way too busy navigating their own lives. Dream big and chase your dreams. This is the time. If you realize engineering isn’t the right major for you, that’s okay. Pursue whatever your calling is because switching your major is easier than pondering on a “what if” for the rest of your life.
Whether it’s academics or hobbies, explore as much as you can. UH offers over 500 organizations for students. Attend events organized on campus. It’s a great way to get involved and just get the vibe of college life.
Lastly, UH is a great school, and I say this not because I am a student, but because it provides you with life changing opportunities whether it’s the facilities, resources or just support. It’s built on resilience and a community so strong that you will never feel alone.
Take inspiration from the ones who left their legacy behind at UH. You’re a Cougar now, so take pride in it. Wear the Scarlet Red and Albino White with pride at games, yell “Go Coogs!” with your Cougar Paw up at every chance you get, take thousands of pictures, spend time at The Den and soak in every second of your college life.
The best part of your life is only beginning!
editor@thedailycougar.com
