How Four Honors College Freshmen Are Adapting to College Living
By Thomas Mussomeli
College is arguably one of the most pivotal moments in one’s life. For some, the structure—or the lack thereof—of college is seen as the beginning of adulthood, and for others it may prove itself a challenge. I interviewed four of my peers to get their perspective and experience making the transition within the Honors College—and the VCU campus in general. To help any new or incoming students, each of the interviewees gave “Words of Wisdom,” or something they wished they had known in preparation for entering college.
QUYNHMAI NGUYEN･◡･๑
Major: Undecided
Hometown: Fairfax, Virginia
Choosing the perfect college makes one keep non-negotiables on the front burner. For Quynhmai Nguyen, finding the perfect close-knit community was that requirement. The VCU Ramily offered an engaging and welcoming environment for students to connect with others. The atmosphere of the Honors College emphasizes both independence and community. Nguyen found the quiet atmosphere and workspaces—such as the multiple lounges and single rooms—within the Honors Dorms that fosters the ideal academic environment. She also said the Honors College assists in building connections and engaging with the small population through Honors events. Nguyen finds it easy to meet new people and engage in genuine relationships with peers. Within the VCU Ramily, Nguyen particularly likes the community of the Honors College and has found meaningful friendships among her peers.
Words of Wisdom: With great independence comes great responsibility. There are certain expectations set in place for college students and professors in college are not going to hold your hand. Without great self-discipline, one may quickly fall behind or lose motivation. Nguyen encourages reaching out to professors, peers and counselors. There is never any shame in asking for and getting help when needed.
Without great self-discipline, one may quickly fall behind or lose motivation.
MASON MATTHEWS ٩( ^ᴗ^ )۶
Major: Chemistry
Hometown: Clemson, South Carolina
Every student has their own checklist when on the search for the right college; and for Mason Matthews, the Honors College checks off his boxes—accessibility to volunteer opportunities, involvement in activities, and an open environment which promotes building connections. Matthews quickly found his place within the Ramily and the greater Richmond area. On campus, everything is in close proximity, meaning almost all campus life is concentrated within convenience. In addition to the numerous lively and bustling campus events and the urban surrounding of Richmond, there is always something to do. Matthews specified his fondness for being around nature and in particular, Belle Isle.
Words of Wisdom: Despite all of the best things about college, there’s always those lingering obstacles. For Matthews, the most challenging thing about transitioning to college was simultaneously maintaining a social life and keeping on top of responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of self-organization early on in the semester—noting down important assignment and exam deadlines and setting priorities for staying on top of assignments.
He emphasized the importance of self-organization early on in the semester—noting down important assignment and exam deadlines and setting priorities for staying on top of assignments.
ELENORE TACASTACAS (⺣ ◡ ⺣)♡* 
Major: Biology
Hometown: Williamsburg, Virginia
Entering VCU, Elenore Tacastacas had her eye on entering dental school. Tacastacas, a biology major, says she found the Honors College’s Guaranteed Admissions Program a compelling factor to apply. Since starting at VCU this August, Tacastacas has found academic guidance outside of class—such as attending SI Sessions and talking to professors during office hours—the most helpful in academic success. As for places on campus, she likes the library as it provides a focus-inducing work environment, but also provides resources like the writing center and free tutoring.
Words of Wisdom: Settling into college is, for lack of a better word, challenging for many, but it is a time of self-growth and being able to find the things that work for you and the things that don’t. Tacastacas said the most valuable lesson she learned was developing strong study habits—especially outside of class time. Making sure enough time and effort is dedicated to academics is the key to college success.
Making sure enough time and effort is dedicated to academics is the key to college success.
LAINA ATKINS (´･ᴗ･`)♡ 
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Williamsburg, Virginia
Laina Atkins liked VCU Honors College’s numerous resources for students to use and the opportunities presented. Atkins, a Psychology major, found all of the opportunities the Honors College had to offer beneficial for building a professional résumé. Specifically, Atkins highlighted the Honors College providing Psychology majors the opportunity to work alongside with a professor to create a thesis and dissertation in their final semesters. This opportunity is valuable to Atkins’ academic success and portfolio as it offers the experience of writing professional papers before entering graduate school.
Words of Wisdom: Since college is filled with change and first times, it is important to accept these changes. Atkins acknowledges that sometimes high school friends, with whom you think you will always talk, sometimes drift apart. She says sometimes distancing from that connection—while often bittersweet—is part of life, and not your fault.
Atkins acknowledges that sometimes high school friends, with whom you think you will always talk, sometimes drift apart. She says sometimes distancing from that connection—while often bittersweet—is part of life, and not your fault.
Photos by Thomas Mussomeli