What's your name and what you are currently studying?
My name is Zena Phillips and I am currently studying to apply to the Medical Laboratory Science program.
What were some of your favorite parts of being in the College Edge program?
I loved exploring Seattle with new people who were just as excited and nervous as me. It was easy to meet people in my dorm through events that the RA's (resident advisor) put on. There was an ice cream social, an Alki beach trip and a Space Needle trip to name a few. My favorite RA outing was visiting the Woodland Park Zoo with my roommates. The highlight was watching penguins compete for food during their feeding time.
A major advantage to the program was creating community in a tame, small environment. Since Willow and Lander hall were being used just for College Edge students, somebody took the initiative to start a dorm group chat. People used it to invite anyone and everyone to a movie night in a lounge or to a game of mafia in someone’s room. In those four weeks, you can really take the time to build connections without the pressure of academics or a busy campus.
Did your experience in College Edge help your transition into a full quarter?
Yes, it helped me transition to fall quarter in every way. It gave me a head start socially, academically and helped me settle into the college lifestyle. Coming from a small high school, I was nervous about the large lecture halls. This program helped me form connections from shared experiences in a relaxed classroom setting. I still meet up with people from my College Edge class and talk to some in the large lecture halls.
As a first-generation college student, I was worried about keeping up with academics. Taking a one 5-credit course was great for reinforcing study habits and lengthening my attention span before taking a full course load. It gave me a lot of confidence going into Fall quarter.
Lifestyle-wise, there were tons of benefits to moving in early and familiarizing myself with the campus. I learned how the laundry system and the dining system worked. I learned some shortcuts around campus and how to use public transportation. I learned how to live with roommates and navigate those relationships.
Do you have any advice for incoming students who may be thinking about joining the program?
Personally, I got a lot out of College Edge and I would do it again. It is very organized and prepares students for the rest of freshman year. You are with other first-years who have the same hopes and fears as you. You are in a safe, low-stakes environment surrounded by staff who want to facilitate fun, valuable learning experiences. Those short 4 weeks taught me that college is about doing things scared. Concerned about speaking up in a seminar? Do it scared. Anxious to invite someone to the Ave? Do it scared. Your efforts will pay off, so it doesn’t hurt to start practicing early in College Edge!
If I could do it again, I would interact with professors as much as possible. You’re in a small classroom with access to a knowledgeable expert who’s excited about the teaching material. They want to help you. If you don’t know where to start, find ways to ask about the content!
