On Aug. 25, Sacred Heart University’s (SHU) fall semester began. Freshmen arrived in the well-worn halls, sophomores levelled up to upper quad, and juniors and seniors moved off campus. Students are getting back into the groove of college life and adjusting to their new living situations and academic status. Many students are having positive experiences being back.
Sophomore Hannah Manzo said she is doing well since being back at SHU, especially academically as she is learning more about her major and is having a better experience with her professors this year.
Manzo also enjoys her living situation. Last year, Manzo lived in Toussaint Hall, a freshman residence hall located in Pioneer Village. This year, Manzo lives in Christian Witness Commons, commonly referred to as North. Christian Witness Commons is a suite-style residence hall for sophomores.
“As for my dorm, I do like it. It’s in a weird location, but I like it a lot better than Toussaint,” said Manzo. “I like the people there and the community based housing.”
Sophomore Blake Mattessich has also experienced a smooth transition into the new school year and is excited to be back.
“I had a great summer, but I can’t complain about being back with all my friends again. I get my independence here and I can do things that I can’t back home, so that’s always nice,” said Mattessich.
Mattessich is also having positive experiences with his professors; his professors have been accommodating and eager to help him and other students succeed.
Catherine Rodriguez, a sophomore and commuter student, is having a harder time adjusting to her academics this year.
“I’d say it’s just more stressful for me this year because I’m going to be taking a bunch of chemistry courses on top of statistics and all my other classes,” said Rodriguez.
Despite being enrolled in more challenging courses than her freshman year, Rodriguez is adjusting well and feels confident in her academic abilities.
“I would say I still have it in my hands, because I already have that experience from my first year,” said Rodriguez.
Sophomore Alex Parisi is enjoying his classes so far and finds that his workload has been very manageable, which is helping with his tradition being back to school. Parisi shared some motivation for other students who may have some difficulty getting back into the groove of things and discovering their interests.
“For students unsure about their majors, you should realize you have plenty of time. Take a bunch of classes and pursue what interests you,” said Parisi.
Mattessich also has some inspiring words for students who are having a hard time adjusting to being back at SHU.
“Just enjoy doing the work you have to do, reach out if you need help, and don’t suffer in silence,” said Mattessich.
Will Morgan contributed to this article.
