Editor's Note: Ask Maddy is an advice column published every Wednesday. Anonymous questions are taken from this Google form. Questions are also taken both from The Collegian's Instagram, @thecollegianur, and via email at copy@thecollegianur.com. The views and opinions expressed in this article do not reflect those of The Collegian.
Dear reader,
Do you remember the very first thought you had upon arrival at the University of Richmond? What was going through your head? If you don’t remember, here are some thoughts I had that might jog your memory:
“Is the dining hall always going to be this packed?”
“How do you even dress for a ‘business in the front, party in the back’ party?”
“They call Tyler Haynes Commons WHAT?”
“There’s no way this laundry room is out of dryers already.”
“This is a LOT of white people.”
These are only a few of the thoughts that raced through my mind in late August of 2019. I was lucky to have orientation advisers that answered my silly questions and upperclassmen who were prepared to pass their torches of knowledge.
Looking back on those first days, it’s unbelievable that the same girl is now a senior.
She’s also president of the Jepson Student Government Association, copy chief of The Collegian, finishing a journalism and leadership studies degree — and she also somehow got involved with the women’s club rugby team.
She conquered daunting feats (eating alone in the Heilman Dining Center), made lifelong friends (Triceragoose) and learned the secret to happiness (Revel Berry Yerba Mate).
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As I’ve progressed through college, I’m realizing not everyone had the same resources available to them when finding their place on campus. When I became an orientation adviser (and certified know-it-all) last year, I realized just how many cracks first years may fall through while getting used to life at UR.
Through this column, I want to continue doing my part to help students — of all class years — with my advice. Whether it’s a case of imposter syndrome or chronic homesickness, I believe that everyone can find their place here with a little help.
Each Wednesday, I’ll answer your burning questions about campus life — from choosing a major to choosing a romantic partner — be sure to send your questions to your resident certified know-it-all.
Warmly,
Maddy
Contact copy chief Madyson Fitzgerald at madyson.fitzgerald@richmond.edu.
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