Hey guys, I’m back! 🌸

This week I thought I’d talk about some of the misconceptions I had about college before I got here. I remember being so excited to start my university adventures in the summer of 2024 and thinking I was so prepared. Sure, I had everything packed and ready to go, but I was still unprepared for all the experiences I was about to have.

After making it through my first year here at Riddle, I wanted to share a few things I’ve learned that I wish I had known beforehand.

1. How to Actually Study
In high school, I never really struggled with tests. So, naturally, I thought college exams wouldn’t be much different. Boy, was I wrong.
University exams are tougher — longer, worded differently, and they carry way more weight on your final grade. My first few didn’t go so well. I went from straight A’s in high school to straight C’s in college. That was my wake-up call.
Eventually, I discovered flashcards and tactile learning. Reading textbook chapters alone just wasn’t cutting it for me. In my University 101 class, we learned about different learning styles, and I took a quiz that revealed I learn best through hands-on methods. Rewriting my notes into flashcards seemed like a hassle at first, but it worked — my grades went up, and I walked into exams with way more confidence.
✨ Pro tip: Take one of those learning style quizzes. You’ll thank yourself later.

2. It’s Okay to Fail
I used to think that getting anything less than an A or B was unacceptable. But here’s the truth: sometimes you give your best effort, and it still isn’t enough for the grade you hoped for. And that’s okay.
Older friends warned me with the classic “C’s get degrees” line, and I thought they were crazy. Fast forward a year later, and suddenly I was celebrating 75s on exams.
Here’s what I learned: don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself to be perfect. Use your professor’s office hours, ask for help when you need it, and remind yourself that nobody has it all figured out. You’ll get through it.

3. The Importance of a Creative Outlet
When I first got here, I noticed I was losing the creativity I once had. I’d been heavily involved in theater and arts throughout high school, and I missed that part of myself.
That’s when I found UnReel Media. This club gave me a space to keep growing as an actress, not only on stage but also on camera. Recently, I even started writing my own short film (stay tuned for updates 👀).
If you can’t find a club that fits your passion, start your own. Chances are, other people are looking for the same thing. Clubs also help you meet upperclassmen who can share advice from their own experiences.

4. You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out
When I arrived at Riddle, I planned on being an engineer. Spoiler: that didn’t last long. Switching into Aviation Maintenance Science (AMS) was terrifying because I didn’t know anything at first. But I slowly adjusted, and eventually it started to feel like the right place for me.
Even now, I’ve changed my mind a dozen times about what I want to do with my degree — and that’s normal. Take a deep breath, explore your options, and remember: the world is your oyster.

5. Bonus: AMS Labs Will Humble You 🔧🪚
Let me tell you, labs will test your patience.
In one of my first labs (AMS 117: Tools and Materials), I had to cut aluminum with a hacksaw. I was so nervous. I wasted three pieces of practice metal before I finally managed to cut out my multigage. Thankfully, with guidance from my professor and TA, I got through it.
More recently, a friend and I were tasked with removing the spinner from an aircraft during a 100-hour inspection project. Taking it off? Easy. Getting it back on? A nightmare. After two hours, three professors, and lots of grease, it still wasn’t attached. We walked out covered in dust, shaking our heads — but laughing, too. That’s the true mechanic experience.

Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, college is a great experience. You’ll grow, be challenged, and discover more about yourself than you expected. Just remember to have fun, give it your best, and don’t sweat the small stuff.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️