By Racheli Jian, Arts and Culture Senior Editor and Layout Editor
For most university students, graduation is the culmination of their four years at a higher institution, celebrating the hard work and successes they’ve achieved so far. However, before walking down the aisle and turning their tassels, every student has to go through their final hurdle: senior year.
The last year of college is one of the more challenging ones, with a combination of high-level classes, balancing social life and trying to dip one’s toes into the real world. One highlight of senior year is simply being the oldest in the school. Most student’s first year or two on campus involves a lot of confusion and adjustment, but seniors don’t have to deal with that. They’re experienced and already know what’s expected of them.
Simply put, seniors are the best people to ask for advice, which is why the YU Observer asked four seniors to share their thoughts on what they wish they knew as freshmen.
Regarding the wide range of extracurriculars, club events and unique social opportunities Yeshiva University has to offer, almost all the seniors recommended fully immersing yourself in the world of Campus Groups. Yeshiva Student Union President Sam Weinberg (YC ‘25) advised freshmen to get involved in virtually every opportunity that they can. “College is a time to expand your intellectual interests beyond just the classroom,” he told the YU Observer. “Choose a few clubs and look for opportunities to be invested in the campus community.”
Students at YU hold a lot of power, as it’s easy to get involved and actually shape what the social and club scene looks like. “Take full advantage of YU’s OSL offerings, if there is something you want to change or add to student life, it’s very likely that you can make that happen,” Mark Kuznicki (YC ‘25) told the YU Observer. Kuznicki also reminded students that they are the ones in charge of their college experience. Ultimately, they are the ones with the power to make their college life what they want it to be, he said.
Many times, as a freshman, there’s a lot to balance. Not only clubs or social events, but also academics and the pressure to know what you want to do with your life at the early ages of 18-20. “My advice to a freshman would be: be okay with not knowing what you want to do,” Harry Meister (YC ‘25) told the YU Observer. “Don’t run to major in something only because it provides a safe way out in career-prospects.” Meister acknowledged the fear that many freshmen experience surrounding the future, but also recommended not to let that fear decide what you choose to study.
“Unless you have a set job that you know you want for after college that requires a certain major, don’t bend over backwards taking courses in a subject you’re not interested in,” Weinberg added. “I regret not minoring in history or poli-sci, two choices that are less practical but would have greatly enhanced my learning experience here.” Weinberg gave two points of advice: First, don’t waste your time with courses that will not be enjoyable and second, allow yourself to learn new things that aren’t only tied to your major courses.
Another reflection seniors made was how their attitude towards Judaic requirements shifted throughout their time at YU. Hannah Topol (SCW ‘25) said that her Judaic classes have been a highlight of her time at YU. “When I first came to Stern, I didn’t appreciate my Judaic classes at all,” she told the YU Observer. “Looking back, I appreciate it so much,” she added, “there’s not gonna be any other time in your life where you have a school that’s full of Jews where you’re just learning Torah.”
Topol also encouraged students to choose Judaic classes that interest them, as some students prioritize getting an A in the class over the actual quality. “When you pick Judaic [classes] don’t just pick something that’s an easy A,” she said. “If you’re debating between classes, pick the one that most excites you.”
While Weinberg and Topol recommended taking advantage of the range of courses offered, realistically, at some point in a college career, every student needs to take their major courses. Topol recommended taking advantage of these required courses, and to invest time and energy into those classes. “Connect and form relationships with the professors that are for your major,” she said, “because most likely you will be taking them many more times in the future.”
“Be involved in class with them but also speak to them after class, go over to them,” she continued. “Make sure that they know you.”
Besides the academic pressure, a lot of freshmen might also feel a social pressure to fit in and form a set group of friends early on. Despite the fact that the desire to blend in is natural, it is also unnecessarily pressuring. “Don’t let social influences stop you from doing what you genuinely want to do, and see all of the social, religious and educational opportunities that exist,” Brandon Melamed (YC ‘25) said. “There’s something for everyone here, and if you haven’t found it yet, you can create just about anything.” A unique feature of YU is the constant push for growth while still having a diverse community that has a niche for each person.
Whether a freshman or a senior, college life can be tough. Balancing school, a social life and sometimes a job is a lot for any person. Hopefully, with some sage senior advice, the college experience will be a bit smoother despite all the natural challenges that may arise.
Photo Caption: Graduation caps at 2024 graduation
Photo credit: Yeshiva University