Dani’s Declassified Barnard Survival Guide
It’s no secret that one’s time at Barnard is filled with copious amounts of learning. After all, Barnard is first and foremost a site of learning. But what about the lessons beyond the lectures, seminars, books, and problem sets? What about all the moments of unexpected learning which inevitably result from the trials and tribulations of college life? Well, folks, may I present Dani’s Declassified Barnard Survival Guide. In other words, here are a few of the tidbits and pieces of knowledge I have acquired during my time at Barnard (thus far).
Your peers’ intelligence does not in any way compete with yours. In fact, it only makes for better study groups! There will be times that you may be intimidated by the academic and creative excellence of your peers. You may even feel like an imposter. Your professor will ask a question, and, before you’ve even started to wrap your head around the inquiry, a classmate has raised their hand, been called on, and recited a verbal feat fit for an expert theorist on the matter. Alright, so maybe this is a bit of a hyperbole, but your peers will amaze you. And while this is, at first, intimidating, maybe even terrifying, you’ll realize that being surrounded by such exceptional people will only rub off on you, inspire you, and motivate you. Furthermore, you’ll come to learn that you’re not alone and, most likely, are equally admired for your strengths.
You may not end up pursuing what you thought you would be going into Barnard, but I guarantee you will find new topics and hobbies that will exhilarate you and add to your already existing passions. Explore these and don’t feel pressured to partake in activities you did in high school. Always wanted to host a radio show? Join WBAR! Have a passion for dance but little experience? Orchesis and CUBE are there to help foster your skills. Don’t be afraid of participating in activities you may have never imagined for yourself! Who knows? Maybe you thought you’d join the debate team since you loved debate in high school, but figure out you prefer volunteering at the Toddler Learning Center instead!
OFFICE HOURS, OFFICE HOURS, OFFICE HOURS! They’re technically optional, yes, but, they truly maximize your understanding of topics, and, ultimately, your grade in a class.
Late-night Diana smoothies are always a good idea. They’re a godsend for long study sessions, just hanging out, or absolutely any situation.
If you want a spot in Milstein, especially for a spot for your friend group, get there early! Yes, even earlier than when you’re thinking.
Never go to Hewitt past 7 pm, unless you want the reject scraps for dinner.
Always make sure your alarm is set if you have an 8:40 am class. If not, you risk frantically running across campus and having an entire lecture class stare at you coming to class late, looking like you just rolled out of bed… because you did.
Never ever underestimate the power of a good night’s rest.
Take advantage of being a Barnard/Columbia student! Go to the MET, attend Bacchanal, participate in the tree lighting ceremony and Midnight Breakfast. There are times that being a college student, and especially a Barnard student, can be overwhelming and demanding. Still, moments where you take the time to be present and partake in the many fun activities this lovely institution has to offer (like pumpkin decorating in the Quad on Halloween!) are the moments you remember and treasure most.
At times, you will surprise yourself with what you are capable of accomplishing. Some weeks you will write three papers, visit a new museum, take two exams, plan your friend’s birthday celebration, and all with flying colors. Other times, you will fall short of your own expectations. You will get overwhelmed with responsibilities. Struggle juggling school with work and extra-curriculars, let alone a social life. When this happens, know it is okay--in fact, encouraged--to ask for help, whether that means asking your professor for an extension or going to Furman Counseling. What I have come to learn is that Barnard is a place that both cheers you on when you excel and offers a helping hand when you fall behind, and that you are bound to do both in a span of four years.