“I really do feel like I’m in college now and getting that experience.”

Damyan Michel was a freshman last year during online classes. He sat down with Niko Barrientos to talk about his first year attending classes on campus.

Niko Barrientos: What was the transition like coming into college last year with everything the way it was?

Damyan Michel: It’s definitely been an experience and big change. I was expecting to have these weird feeling last year when I first started college. But, with everything being online because of Covid I never felt like I properly transitioned and didn’t feel like I was in college. Now, with everything being back in person, I really do feel like I’m in college now and getting that experience. Actually, being able to go to classes instead of them being online is really cool and you feel freer and more open.

Niko: What specific part of this year has given you that college experience that you missed out on last year?

Damyan: I feel like it’s the social, classroom, dorm and community aspects rolled into one. Last year I didn’t really get to meet anyone, because I was stuck at home. Now I’m actually able to meet people and I have that choice now to go out and meet people. Especially with now getting to live in the dorms and be independent, I’m able to feel more like an adult now.

Niko: It seems like being by yourself during covid was especially hard for you.

Damyan: Yeah, it definitely was, because during that time I lived with my sister, but I was stuck in an apartment and I wasn’t able to go out and meet people. During that time, I definitely felt lonely at times, the one word I would use to describe it is Isolating.

Niko: Was there anything specific you did to try and help with that?

Damyan: Well, I know a lot of people picked up new hobbies and stuff, but I didn’t really do stuff like that. For me it was watching a lot of movies, shows and playing video games to help pass the time. It helped keep my mind busy, so I wasn’t sitting there idling every day.

Niko: Well, now that you’re living on campus, is there anything that was shocking or surprising?

Damyan: Definitely, you think to yourself coming into college that you’ve got it handled, but there’s a big wakeup call that happens when you’re living by yourself. The biggest thing I have now is all the free time I have on my hands and figuring out how to properly manage it all. Especially with Covid and stuff it makes it hard to go out there and do things sometimes.

Niko: Is there anything specific you’re doing now to try and stay socially active?

Damyan: Right now, I’m trying to figure out some good clubs to join, I definitely want to join one, but I’m still trying to decide which to join. Besides that, I go exercise every now and them to try and stay in condition and socialize at the cafeteria in Sandberg when I have the chance.

Niko: What is dorm life here on campus today?

Damyan: Well first, I really wish the rooms were a bit bigger, that took some time getting adjusted to. The last year has been really hard to go out and meet people and living in the dorms lets me do exactly that. There’s a bunch of people we’re able to talk to and hang out with on a daily basis which is honestly a nice change of pace.

Niko: Finally, now that things are sort of back under this “new normal” what are you looking forward to doing?

Damyan: Honestly, it’s just being able to go out and meet people. I’m someone that really loves social interaction and being able to meet new and interesting people. My biggest hope or goal for this year is getting out there to meet new people and hopefully make some new friendships and relationships along the way.