College is a period marked by both excitement and stress. Throughout my time at Colgate, some of the most stressful experiences included a traumatic event, academic struggles, and the challenges of personal identity. Reading through these stories can provide valuable insights and common experiences that students may relate to.
Spring of my senior year, the highlight of my stay in Wales with 13 fellow Colgate students turned into a series of mishaps. While everyone else was flying to Cardiff from JFK, my plans derailed due to a fight outside a bar during the Christmas break. The aftermath of a fractured cheek, surgery, and traveler’s woes added to my stress. Adapting to an unfamiliar city and navigating alone with heavy luggage was a challenge, but thankfully, I found my way with the help of fellow Red Raiders.
While I’m grateful for the camaraderie that helped me through, it was a stark reminder that even the most welcoming environments can have their downsides. Amid laughter and praise for beer, I appreciated the community but also acknowledged the importance of a strong support system.
College isn’t just about academics; it’s also a place where personal and professional boundaries can blur. One of my most distressing experiences was related to my advisor, a professor and the faculty advisor to our Think Peace club. Despite my active involvement, he excluded me from key club activities and created a private Facebook group instead. When my post was deleted from a public page, I was devastated, feeling unsupported and isolated. This experience taught me the importance of having a support network and advocating for myself.
Academically, my Anatomy and Physiology professor’s demeanor was equally concerning. During my first semester, she referred to my class as the “dumb class,” and her dismissive teaching methods further stressed me. It wasn’t until much later that another professor intervened, eventually leading to a change in the curriculum. This experience highlighted the impact of instructors’ attitudes and teaching styles on students' mental and emotional well-being.
Another social challenge arose during my first sociology class. My professor’s biased comments about political affiliations were deeply troubling, especially when she suggested that being a Republican was a more rational choice than being a Democrat. As a dedicated Democrat with a strong logical mind, this comment was more than just an academic disagreement. It was a challenge to my values and a reminder of the importance of self-awareness in a diverse learning environment.
Discovering and expressing my gender identity was another significant source of stress during my college years. I passed well as a man in public, but incorporating this into my private experiences was not without its challenges. Using the women's restroom became a source of anxiety, as I received unwanted attention and stares each time. I understand now that my feeling of discomfort was rational; it was ultimately a reminder that language and norms can deeply impact individuals differently. Reflecting on this experience, I understand the importance of understanding and accepting diverse identities.
Throughout my college journey, I faced various stressful experiences that shaped my path. From personal and academic challenges to the complexities of identity, each lesson taught me valuable lessons. Whether it was adapting to a foreign country, navigating through academic pressures, or coming to terms with personal issues, these experiences were formative. I hope that sharing these stories can help others navigate their own journeys with the same resilience and understanding.