gBlog - How we see it …

A few days ago, the atmosphere was festive and jovial, announcing the beginning of New Student Orientation and the arrival of 348 new students, a record as far as I know. These freshmen enjoyed their newfound freedom, formed new friendships and rediscovered old friends. However, today I noticed the beginning of their realization of the reality of what college life at Gallaudet is like aside from the social aspect. I walked into the Student Academic Center at one time, and the first thing I saw was a new student saying that “the world was ending.” Stress is high, as these new students are struggling to get the schedules they want, and even the upperclassmen are feeling it, racing to perfect their schedules or pay off their balance, as well as buy their books and exclaim at how expensive they are.

I have to admit, I’ve been swept into the whirlwind of stress here at Gallaudet. I’ve been balancing work as an RA, which for now is helping out with the evening activities of NSO, as well as volleyball, which has required me to attend practices as early as 5 am, and no later than 6:30 this past week. I often wonder, ‘Is it stupid to think that I can do it all?’ I’ve been less than cheery these past few days, trying to wipe this dazed and exhausted look out of my face, but some moments have made it all feel worthwhile. A new student came up to me, nearly in tears and wanted to talk. This student was frustrated with his schedule and the chaos on campus, and it felt good that just by talking to him I was able to give him some new hope, and the feeling was mutual. I go to Gallaudet because I love it here, and I play volleyball because I love it, and I’m waiting for that light at the end of the tunnel to come out and shine brightly, but in the meanwhile, smile and say a kind word here and there. It’ll make all the difference in someone else’s day, you may not know how much.