• The choice of a major may feel super daunting! For me, I decided my major based on what skills I wanted to gain and my current interests. This allowed the coursework to not feel like work, but rather steps to better understanding and exploration of a topic/area of interest! I’ve always been interested in why people learn in the ways they learn and figuring out why schools operate in the way that they do, so an Educational Studies major was right up my alley. But, if there was something I liked but not enough to gain a deep understanding of the area, I would take courses or consider minoring in that subject area. Additionally, minors are a great way to gain skills in an area that you want to learn more about but might not want a deep dive into the area! For example, having a good understanding of how societal structures work through a Sociology minor rather than a Sociology major could be an option. Or if you want to hone your language skills, minoring in Spanish or another language is a possibility.

• Personally, I would recommend double majoring/minoring in areas where you either see a clear distinction between the two areas (aka there’s minimal overlap in their coursework) or if you see the areas as complementary (aka there’s an intersection between the areas or if you feel like what you learn in one area will help with the other area). 

• Shopping periods can sometimes be stressful since not having a finalized schedule or routine can be overwhelming. But, thinking of the shopping period as a class “free trial” may ease the nerves! The shopping period is the time during the first 2-3 weeks of the semester where you are able to explore a class and understand its context without fully committing to enrolling in the course. I think it's a great way to see if a class is what you expected or have a better understanding of how a class looks in terms of workload. Professors are fully aware that students are filling out their courses, so try not to feel bad about needing to leave a class early to shop for another class or if you end up dropping the class during the shopping period when you decide you do not want to take the class. 

• A heads up about the shopping period: the longer you take to decide whether or not you would like to take a course the more work you might be doing throughout that 2-3 week shopping period. The expectation is that while you shop a course, you continue to keep up with the reading and course material – even if you aren't sure you're going to enroll in the course for the rest of the semester. So, while you should explore, be sure that you're not overextending yourself by shopping too many classes. I can tell you for sure, that shopping 9 classes in addition to the 3 you are already enrolled in, is definitely too many!

​​​​​There is no shame in asking for an extension! It is far better to have an extra few days to finish a high-quality assignment compared to rushing or cramming everything in and submitting a low quality assignment or something you are not proud of. Also professors likely want to read work that you're proud of as opposed to something you put together last minute or under stress! Asking for an extension can be done in a number of ways, but here is a series of steps that may work for you:

• Notice sooner rather than later when you might need an extension! If you have a number of assignments due in one particular week or know that you'll be celebrating a holiday or another known circumstance that might impact your ability to complete an assignment on time, let your professor know as soon as you are able. It's clear communication helps make things a lot easier in the long run.

• If something unplanned comes up instead, know that it's still OK! Life happens, folks get sick, computers act up, you do what you can! When the unexpected (or even be expected) happens try utilizing the following Email template to reach out to your professor and ask for an extension: 

Dear Professor [X], 

My name is [X] and I am currently in your [course name]. Thank you for a great semester so far! 

In light of [a personal emergency/sudden illness/etc.], I wanted to let you know that I do not feel capable of accomplishing [assignment, paper, problem set, etc.] by the original due date. I want to give this course and the material my fullest attention and best efforts; however, I am unable to do so at this moment. I expect that I can accomplish the [assignment, paper, problem set, etc.] by [propose a time that works best for you]. Would this adjusted timeline be feasible? Please recommend an adjusted timeline, if not. I will continue to be in touch with you as I figure out my current situation. Thank you in advance for your understanding. 

Best, 

[X]

If you're having a tough time with a class, you can drop the course, stick it out and get a grade, or take the class as a pass/D/fail (P/D/F). Ultimately, you should meet with your advisor to determine the best way forward, but a few things I've learned when trying to make that final decision is to consider the following:

• Is the course for your major? If you're taking a course that's extremely difficult and for your major/intended major, I'll always recommend sticking it out, especially if you're in a major where not taking a course in a particular semester may mean a difficulty completing your major on time or prevent you from moving forward in your major track. That's not to say stick it out and not get extra support and resources (which you can find here!), But more so stick it out so that way you are able to move forward in your major and work towards degree completion. Also know that in some circumstances, at the discretion of your department chair, you may be able to P/D/F a course for your major. 

• Is the course just for fun? I always say if a course is just for fun, but it ends up being super difficult and not something that is bringing you joy, then the course is no longer fun. If that's the case, I would recommend dropping the course simply because the extra free time you have for not attending the class and engaging in the course material, can end up bringing more joy than stressing over a class that was supposed to be “for fun.” If the course is still fun but time consuming, I would recommend P/D/F-ing in the course! This way you are still able to enjoy the course but perhaps feel less of pressure or stress when it comes to managing your time and can engage in more creative or unique ways. 

• Is the course only offered every few years? Sometimes, due to Professor availability or the amount of interest in a course, a class may only be offered every other year or every few years. In the situation if you know you won't be able to take a class again, I would recommend sticking it out or taking the course P/D/F. The experience of a really incredible class is something you truly can't trade, especially if it's a course that May not be offered before you graduate from Barnard. And I was like this, saying the course is likely to lead to some really incredible learning opportunities and experiences. Additionally, not many people can say that they took a course on reality television or the impact of gender on climate for example. Be sure to seize the moment when you have the opportunity to take a really cool class!

• The friends you make in college can be your friends for life! And believe it or not, I found that making friends in college is a bit more similar to making friends in kindergarten/grade school. In my experience, I found that I made my friends in one of three ways: in the rush in chaos of NSOP, through mutual classes/my major, and through shared interests/clubs and organizations. While it's more typical that the folks you meet during NSOP may just be friendly faces you see on campus, sometimes the folks you meet during NSOP stick with you over your four years – especially if you have some sort of shared experience (like getting lost on subways because none of your were local New Yorkers and your phones died and you couldn’t use Google maps so you wander around for hours together – not at all speaking from experience!!). This being so, if you’re reading this as an incoming student, be sure to make the most of your NSOP experience by saying yes to anything that sounds interesting to you and to a few new things as well! 

• Another way to make friends on campus is through your classes! While it's a little trickier, since folks aren't always in the same classes since there are so many classes to choose from and since classes (especially lectures!) are much larger than your classes in high school, you'll find out some things stay the same! Usually, people sit in the same spot each class and after the first few weeks, you will find yourself next to the same people each week. If/when you do, be sure to make conversations and introduce yourself to your classmates! Additionally, once you declare your major you take more upper level courses and electives which will tend to have folks who are both in your major and in your class year, making it even easier to be friends since you may be in more of the same classes more often and might start to know some of the same people after being on campus together for a few years.

• Lastly, I’ve made most of my friends through clubs on campus! Making friends through clubs is easiest since you already know that you have a connection with other folks through your shared interest. Clubs are a great way to make friends since it's a dedicated space literally for building community! At Barnard and Columbia specifically, clubs are also great since they focus on connecting students with folks in their year as well as students in the years above and below them, making it easy to make friends across class years as well! Even if there's something that you are loosely interested in, I recommend joining a club for that interest and seeing if you get along with the people there!

• One other way to make friends is via your hallmates! Living on the same floor as someone allows you to see the same people regularly and you may become friends with the person next door or down the hall! This is even easier if you live in corridor style housing like in the Quad and once you’ve settled into a daily routine! 

• Bonus way: If you happen to work on campus, having a job with student coworkers is another great way to make friends! You'll see your co-workers multiple times a week and overtime you'll likely get to know each other really well!

Since folks in college are setting their own schedules, you may find yourself with less structure than you are used to or that you may have more time alone while friends or roommates are in class/work. This being so, you might have to adjust to being more independent and having more alone time. With this new element of scheduling, I recommend taking some time for yourself and reflecting on what you need and what your personal rhythm is. Are you someone who needs a midday nap? An early bird? Is alone time for your productivity or does it make you feel isolated? Once you figure out these aspects of yourself and more, the adjustment to figuring out how to navigate greater independence and more time alone becomes a bit easier! 

For me, stress culture is the idea that stress is necessary, if not required, in order to be a good student and that not being stressed means you are not working hard enough. Examples of stress culture can range from Instagram stories of people in the library at 3AM or people asking “How are you not stressed about the midterm tomorrow?” to more concerning elements such as constantly feeling anxious that you are not working hard enough and forgoing rest/personal relationships for the sake of classes. The idea that college classes, or that college in general, needs to be stressful as an indicator of success is a mindset that can be quite toxic and lead to burnout. It took some time to unlearn behaviors of stress culture, but it started with understanding that stress is not a requirement for success or personal fulfillment. Specifically with the fact that if something is enjoyable, that does not mean that it is inherently bad or something I shouldn’t be doing; and, that if something is stressful that does mean that I have to endure it to get the outcome I wanted. Additionally, my friends were instrumental in changing my outlook. If after every time you said “Ugh, I was up so late last night” was met with “Oh no! What are you going to do to get some more rest tonight?” changes your outlook entirely! 

• Oftentimes, its process over product – you will receive a grade(s) that you bumped about, but looking at learning beyond the scope of grading is helpful not only for your mental health, but also for their educational growth as a whole. Learning what worked and what didn’t work and new ways to approach a topic is a big accomplishment in itself! 

• Ferris is not a good dining hall. Outside of the biscuits and desserts, it gives nothing! 

• Your peers are incredible – while they are certainly not here to teach you, you can learn a lot for their amazing insights 

• Attend class!! Whether on zoom, in-person, hyflex, etc. if you’re feeling good physically and mentally, attend class! 

• There are many things you can do alone, but there are few things you have to do alone. There are people here who are rooting for you and want to help you. 

• Explore! Explore! Explore! While many people graduate from Barnard and stay in New York City afterwards, only as a student can you live in New York with many of the conveniences of student discounts and free events throughout the city. Each semester, I recommend making a list of a few things you are interested in and hoping to do in the city. For me, since I love trains, I made it my goal to ride every subway line of the MTA. For other folks, it's seeing as many locations from Gossip Girl as possible to going to every museum of interest for a free/low-cost. It might be helpful to approach your time in New York City with the assumption that you might leave the city after graduation so you can prioritize what’s most important to you. Also, can’t recommend enough taking advantage of any free types that Barnard offers – from seeing a free Broadway show for class or attending a trip to the Opera though the Office of Student Experience and Engagement usually somewhere on campus is paying for students to do something. 

• Exploring other boroughs is the most recommended way to explore! It’s easy to stay stuck in Manhattan and become used to the surrounding neighborhoods, so be sure to take the time to engage with the other boroughs! There’s plenty of fun things to do and a number of good places to eat! 

• Beyond Barnard is your saving grace for both on and off campus job opportunities and internships! At the start of each semester, usually offices on campus (both at Barnard or at Columbia) post jobs for student workers that are available – from there, you can find jobs from a range of student research assistants to working in one of the centers in Milstein to giving tours for admissions. There’s something for everyone on our four little blocks of campus. 

• For off-campus work, Beyond Barnard’s career fairs, the numerous facebook groups for Barnard and other historically women’s college alums, and standard cold-applications have been the way to go for me! Finding an off campus internship usually takes a little bit of additional work, but it can be worth it to explore a passion in-depth, if your schedule allows. Thanks to the pandemic, many off campus internships and jobs are now offering remote opportunities, making the “off-campus” element less of a burden for doing amazing work at unique organizations and workplaces in New York. And, if you find an amazing opportunity that happens to be low pay, be sure to take advantage of Beyond Barnard’s Internship Program that pays you to work unpaid internships, with the expectation that you attend two to three zoom programs. 

“Networking” was one of those buzzwords that truly didn’t make sense to me until someone just explained it as making friends who are specifically interested in the type of work you like/may want to go into and finding people who you admire. In short – you’re just finding friends with specific shared interests and folks who you would like to be mentored by! I’ll admit, there’s a weird fakeness that comes with networking at times – feeling as if you’re only talking to someone because you have a shared interest and nothing else in common; or if you feel like you are befriending someone just to use them for their connection to another person or place of work. That’s the fun of capitalism. But, feel free to break the current mold of networking and only engage in the time of relationship building that feels best for you. If you know that there’s someone you admire, but couldn’t imagine being mentored by them – just share a note saying that you appreciate their work. Or, if you’re interested in a certain field but don’t particularly like the schmoozing that is associated with networking, try naturally making friends with people by exploring your passions and interests in the way that works best for you through student organizations or personal exploration throughout the city!

“Talk to anyone and everyone! There is so much you can learn from talking to faculty, staff, and your peers. In my experience, these conversions have led to paper and research ideas and gave me a new perspective on various issues. Barnard is such a special place where learning occurs inside and outside of the classroom. Take advantage of it.”

“Be present, as much as you can! The city and this campus can be a little crazy and overwhelming at times, but there’s also so much beauty to see!” 

“Sleep at least 7 hours a night and study in the Reid living room!”

“It’s never that deep! Have fun and get rest.” 

“Learn to cook! It helps with stress and is a fun activity to do with friends.”

“Start your work early! There are single use bathrooms on every floor in Milly. Never say no to having fun, if the reason is doing your work. Everything will work out!!” 

“The Watson Library is great for group projects!” 

“Say yes to everything! Have a blast…” 

“Get involved in things. Spend time doing what you love! Get sleep and eat breakfast!” 

“Cherish time with your friends!”

“Do what you love, love what you do, and the love, success, and friendship will follow. You are part of a very special community. Get involved!” 

“Don’t be afraid of your professors! They are really here to help – that’s what they’re paid for. Go to office hours, ask for extensions, send a bunch of emails. They are your resources and 9 times out of 10 will honor all of your requests :) “ 

“Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone – join clubs, audition, and have fun!” 

“I would encourage underclassmen & upperclassmen to tap into your entire entrepreneurial nature! It’s never too late to join a club, it’s never too late to meet new friends, and once you do you’ll feel so happy for taking that leap and finding a new support system in college, especially in Barnard. I’ve always felt comfortable reaching out to upperclassmen, so you should too! 

“During my time at Barnard, and especially during remote learning, I realized that I had a learning disability, but waited too long to take action. Taking care of your mental health is important; but do not wait to seek medical help as the process to get a formal diagnosis can take many many months. It is important to self-advocate in this way to be kind to your future self.” 

“Trust your gut! :) “ 

“Don’t be too hard on yourself!!! You are doing great! (also, go to Furman)” 

“Friendship is the only thing that really counts – having good friends and being one! All the other stuff is just decoration :) “ 

“Use the Center for Engaged Pedagogy’s co-working hours!!! Committing to going “almost” weekly helped me meet thesis deadlines.” 

“Have fun and don’t stress about grades.”

“Show up to things! Showing up is the first step to meeting people who share the same interests as you and being able to make a change on campus.” 

“This is cliche, but take advantage of office horses – even if you don’t have any questions (pertaining to the class lol) My favorite questions to ask professors/to get to know them is why they got their PhD in X subject/what was their grad school journey!” 

"Do as little school as possible and take advantage of everything this school/campus, ity, and the world has to offer you!” 

“Try some unique NYC activities like walking from the top to bottom of Manhattan! IKEA has a free ferry! Start your thesis early. Take a class in the Italian department, they rock!” 

“Do as many free events as possible. Also, take as many ‘just for fun’ non-major related classes as you can.” 

“Put yourself and your health first!” 

“Don’t pull all nighters! Nothing is that serious, take care of yourself!” 

“Enjoy your time here because Y.O.L.O!” 

“Ask for help and make time for naps/rest/calm (even when it's busy) (and utilize well-woman for a  nap spot).” 

“1. Get out of your comfort zone! You’re amazing and capable and can do it! 2. Explore NYC!! There're so many great places and it's so easy to get stuck on the campus bubble – it's worth it! 3. Go to random events on campus about which you know nothing – everyone is always nice and you won’t get the chance again :) 4. Have fun! Take it easy! Everything will be ok! Barnard is amazing and they care about you.” 

“Take it easy :) Don’t buy your textbooks!”

“1. Get the pret coffee subscription! 2. You can always leave! Classes, bad parties, relationships. You can always leave!” 

“Don’t sacrifice your happiness or having fun experiences for school. There will always be another assignment or class to worry about, so just don’t worry before you need to. You have time, use it.” 

“Start your thesis early and choose a topic you won’t get bored of! Choose your major based on the classes you want to take, not what you “should” do. Take time for scotties you love, even if you have less time for homework, you’ll remember your communities more than anything.” 

“Be nice to yourself! Stop comparing yourself to others. You are on your own journey, so don’t worry if your achievements look different than those of your peers.” 

“Nourishing your mind, body, and spirit will allow you to show up as the best person you can be every day! Make sure to move your body at least 30 minutes a day; go for a walk in the park, do some yoga in your dorm – whatever speaks to you, do it! Try to eat a balanced diet – food is fuel! And engage in activities that bring your spirit joy – for me, that’s meditating, positive affirmation, counting my blessings – that may look different for everyone, but find what speaks to you! Lastly, don’t forget to get a good night’s rest! Sleep is so important! The assignments can wait, get your rest!”

“Work will get done when it gets done. Don’t worry about taking a break or going to friends to decompress! Those are the memories that will stay with you anyways.” 

“You don’t have to have it all figured out in your first year!!! Take your freshman year to explore all of your possible interests and be kind and patient with yourself even if it seems like others are doing more or know something you don’t. You always have time and space to change your mind, so don’t stress about making the perfect or “most right” decision. Ask for help – many professors and alumna and peers are willing to talk if you have questions or concerns. Enjoy your time here!” 

“Millie 3 is for serious work only. Also, don’t worry about making friends. Pursue the things you enjoy and your passions and you’ll make them along the way!” 

“1. Adopt a zero-tolerance policy for fake people. 2. Care less about your grades and more about how you’re treating people.” 

“Take classes just because they sound fun or interesting and don’t let your grades define you or your college experience.” 

“Laugh more, be gentle with yourself, you are capable, go to office hours! Play frisbee!” 

“Always ask for more! (from professors, institutions – they always have the money even when they say no).” 

“Go to the writing center!!! For everything, all the time. And if you feel like people are all smarter than you, it is probably because they are more used to the college-style classroom learning – it’s  not you! Good luck!” 

“Take advantage of the Athena Center and Design Center and all of the other amazing resources offered at Barnard.” 

“Definitely take advantage of all the resources available at Barnard (ex: writing fellows, the CEP, ERC, etc.). There were so many moments where these resources could’ve helped me in finals, writing papers, and more! Just don’t be shy” 

“Make an appointment at Furman (even if you feel like you don’t “need” it) – it’s helpful to talk to someone! TRY OUT FOR CLUBS! Even when you’re scared – put yourself out there. You are loved. You are capable!” 

“Do not let fear keep you from making the most of the resources and experiences available to you, and especially the incredible community at Barnard. Cherish your classes, your peers, this campus, and your time while it lasts.” 

“Enjoy your time here and cherish the opportunity of boulin’ around with the girlies!” 

“Try out every library freshman year before deciding your favorite :) Peet's coffee is the best. Savor every minute at Barnard.” 

“Spend time on the Milstein Balconies/all green spaces” 

“1. Focus on academics! You’ll have enough time to experience college. 2. Think about what you want to do in the future ahead of time! Build your resume from early on – apply to things even if you think you don’t qualify! HAVE FUN!” 

“Sometimes just getting through the assignment/paper/exam deserves to be celebrated! Keep your head up - you got this!”

“Whatever you do here at Barnard make sure you’re doing it for YOU! Nothing is more important than your wellbeing and growth. Don’t be afraid to put yourself first – especially over grades and external pressures.” 

“Go out, have fun, enjoy life! The work will get done!” 

“This school can be hard, lonely, and overwhelming. Be gentle with yourself. Your first year may be really hard, but by the time you are a senior, you will have grown so much. Everything works out, be present, kind, work hard, be patient – you will graduate as someone your younger self would be so proud of.”

“Stress less, take the time to enjoy campus, enjoy your classes, and enjoy the wonderful people in the Barnard community. You’ll be graduating sooner than you think, so really cherish every moment.” 

“If you’re not enjoying your courses, drop them! Don’t be afraid to do a 180° if it brings you back to enjoying learning. Your 4 years here should be full of growth – don’t spend them hating your classes.” 

“Get a lower meal plan! John Jay is the nastiest dining hall! Got to office hours! Forget people who make you feel worse! Get money!” 

“I wished I joined more clubs. I was discouraged and disappointed with the clubs I joined in my freshman year. What would have been better is if I signed up for all the clubs I was interested in and do a process of elimination. This way, I would have found my closest friends sooner.” 

“Barnard is the best. Take as many of your classes here than at Columbia – Barnard is way better. Commit to it and embrace the tight knit community! Bold Beautiful forever!”

“Enjoy the time you have because you never know when another pandemic will mess you up!” 

“I met many of my best friends through clubs on campus! Find ways to connect with people with shared interests and plan activities together outside of school, like going to a movie.” 

“Take classes that you’re interested in, but also things you’ve never tried before. You might find that it becomes your major or minor! Also, try to plan your senior year classes to be more chill if possible. Between senior events, the job hunt/grad school applications, and everything else you’ll want to do before you graduate, you need to make sure you have time to enjoy and soak it all in.” 

“Take rest, don’t pressure yourself – done is good! Exciting things ahead, exciting things now! Embrace it all :)”

“Try to get out of Morningside Heights at least once a week! Add events and block out time on Gcal (or another calendar) for you!” 

“Check in with your advisor, especially during your junior year to make sure that everything is in order. Don’t wait until your senior year!” 

“I would encourage all students to take their time in college. It can feel like such a rushed experience and people should take time to enjoy the Barnard environment and take advantage of the college’s resources. Staying true to yourself and your values are wicked important. College is a different experience for everyone, so please keep that in mind!” 

“Use the Course reserves to access textbooks for free and scan for PDF copies of them!” 

“Just keep swimming! :) “

“Networking isn’t everything. Don’t feel like you have to do anything to feel “accomplished.” You are doing enough!” 

“Prioritize the relationships that allow you to flourish, challenge you to grow, and make you feel at home. Senior year is not too late to try new things, even May of senior year. Make time for movie nights and popcorn. Make memories!” 

“Prioritize yourself! Nothing and no one should go before yourself (even friends)!” 

“Don’t leave all of your super hard requirements for your very last semester!: 

“Take every opportunity you can to get off campus and explore New York!”