First year students share thoughts on entering college.

Connor Thomson ’22. Scottsdale, Arizona, Brophy College Preparatory School in Phoenix, Arizona.

What kind of advice have you been given about moving away and starting college?

Thomson: “Stay rooted in my faith because there is going to be a lot of temptations being on my own and being independent. Stay grounded in my Catholic-based religion. Find a mentor and really start to form a network.”

Interview by Patrick Dolan ’19.

Jeasmine Ebessa ’22. Bethesda, Maryland, The Academy of the Holy Cross.

What is some advice you have gotten about going to college?

Ebessa: “I think just being smart about where I am and what time it is. Don’t ever be alone, especially if I’m uncertain about where I am or if I feel like something fishy is going on. Always tell someone where you are or where you are going so people know your location.”

Interview by Rebecca Barus ’19.

Elise Welsh ’22. Falls Church, Virginia, Bishop O’Connell High School.

What kind of advice have people given you for handling this new experience?

Welsh: “My cousin Tyler, she told me one time just to embrace it, try as much as I want and as much as I can. Just find what I like because I have nothing to lose trying new things . Embrace the new opportunities and the new experiences that I’m being presented with.”

Interview by Amanda Tremarki ’18.

Thomas Malouf ’22. Bethesda, Maryland, The Heights School.

Why did you pick St. Joe’s?

Malouf:  “I picked St. Joe’s because they have a Rugby team, that was very important to me when I looked at colleges. When I visited it just felt right and seemed like it would be a good fit. I definitely think I made the right decision.”

Interview by Ryan Hartnett ’19.

Olivia Clark ’22. Wyomissing Pennsylvania, Springside Chestnut Hill Academy.

What are you bringing from home that you can’t live without?

Clark: “My photos with my best friends and my family. I have some birthday cards from my grandparents that I’m bringing, so that if I get home sick I can read them.”

Interview by Julissa Chaidez ’19.

Garrett Lyons ’22. Silver Spring, Maryland, Georgetown Preparatory High School.

If there was one thing that you’re most excited about, what is it?

Lyons: “I think the most exciting thing would be meeting new people. I’ve been in the same area for my entire life, so meeting new people and being able to be in a new city is something I’m really looking forward too. I’m also on the soccer team, so I’m really looking forward to the soccer season and meeting those guys.”

Interview by James McGovern ’19.