With classes beginning at Georgetown this week, freshmen students begin the next chapter of their lives as Hoyas.
We asked some of our Storytellers from Georgetown to share their wisdom about college life and their fondest memories of their freshman year at the Hilltop. Here’s what they said.
Ninabella Arlis (C’26, B’26)
My best memory of my first year at Georgetown: My friends and I took an hour-long train ride to Old Town Alexandria. We spent the day exploring boutiques and bookstores, sampling French and Thai cuisine, and even visiting one of the area’s oldest buildings, which now houses a Starbucks. It’s a wonderful example of the hidden gems we’re lucky to have close to us.
What I would have liked to have known earlier: Nothing is ever wasted. The years you spent learning a sport can still serve you well in college sports, even if you got kicked off the high school team. The course you took for a major you ultimately decided not to pursue may have led you down your current path. No effort is truly wasted. You just have to believe in yourself.
Bennie Chang (SFS’26)
My best memory of my first year at Georgetown: My freshman year was full of great memories with friends, but my favorite memory was ice skating at the National Gallery of Art at the end of freshman year. There’s something magical about watching my friends gracefully land double axels. Ice skating has become a tradition for us and I can’t wait to continue it this year!
What I would have liked to have known earlier: I wish I had realized sooner that everyone has a story to tell, often one you’d never expect. It could be a secret talent or a life-changing experience that made them who they are. I encourage you to take the time to get to know others on a deeper level – those relationships are likely to become some of the most meaningful.
Mara Goldstein (C’27)
My best memory of my first year at Georgetown: This is my first time experiencing snow! Growing up in a tropical region, I never had the opportunity to play in the snow. This past January, I was finally able to throw snowballs, make snow angels, and build snowmen with my friends! I spent the entire season creating wonderful memories with all of my closest friends.
What I would have liked to have known earlier: I wish I knew to worry less and be more adaptable. There will always be times when things don’t go exactly the way you want them to, but the easiest way to get through the rough patches is to stop worrying and do your best. The first year of college is scary, but also incredibly exciting!
Grace Hardymon (C’25)
My best memory of my first year at Georgetown: On my first night in Harbin Hall, my roommate and I took the subway to the Washington Monument with some of our neighbors. We sat at the base and admired this landmark of our new home. I fondly remember that night as a way to not only get to know DC, but also some of my closest friends!
What I would have liked to have known earlier: I wish I had known that you have so much time to focus on your interests and activities during your first year. There’s no need to rush – explore and enjoy every moment!
Sydney Carroll (C’27)
My best memory of my first year at Georgetown: I had a snowball fight with my friends at midnight during the first snowfall of the winter. We had so much fun and it was a great reminder that even though we work so hard, we can still have fun.
What I would have liked to have known earlier: Don’t be afraid to do things that you don’t necessarily enjoy. There will be many uncomfortable moments, but in those uncomfortable moments you will find the other people who are uncomfortable and then they will become your friends!
Alex Johnson (C’25)
My best memory of my first year at Georgetown: Georgetown Day! It was so fun and exciting to see the entire campus come together to celebrate the end of the year. This is definitely something all freshmen should look forward to!
What I would have liked to have known earlier: It’s okay not to know what you want to do. It takes time to figure out what you’re passionate about and what you want to spend your time on, so don’t rush into it!