Join the VarsityBlog Community

Your voice matters. 500+ students are already writing on VarsityBlog — join them.

Create Account

Share your expertise with the next generation. Create your VarsityBlog account.

Create Account
None
Charmaine Elefandi

4 Weeks Into College


25 February 2026  ·  3 min read
366 views
4 Weeks Into College
It’s been just four weeks since I stepped into campus as a first-year student, fresh with excitement, anxiety and a course title that sounds cooler than it actually is, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning …... and honestly, it feels like I’ve packed an entire semester’s worth of growth, confusion, and wild discoveries into this tiny slice of time . From day one, the transition hit hard. The jump from high school to college felt like a coding bug that wouldn’t compile . Everything was new …the energy, the speed, the untethered freedom. AI and ML sounded like futuristic magic when I applied ,but here’s the reality check: it’s hard. Like stare-at-your-laptop- until-your-brain-aches hard . I’ve had days where I just stared at Python syntax and thought, “Am I even cut out for this?” But somewhere in that mess of doubt and debugging, I learned a key lesson: Patience is your new best friend. I had to let go of the idea that I’d grasp everything instantly. AI isn’t about geniuslevel understanding overnight,it’s about breaking things down, one concept at a time. Slowly, the wall of confusion started to feel a little more climbable. Another major turning point came from unexpected places, Upper class students. I didn’t realize how valuable they would be until I started asking questions. They’ve been where I am, and they understand the emotional and academic rollercoaster that comes with first year. Some of the best advice I’ve received so far came from them, Don’t isolate yourself, find a study group, and don’t be too hard on yourself. These words stayed with me, especially during moments of frustration. At first, I avoided study groups. I thought I’d work better alone. Big mistake . Study groups have saved me more than once. There’s something powerful about sitting in a circle of equally confused students, talking things out, solving problems together, and laughing at shared mistakes. It makes the journey less lonely ,and way more human . Of course, imposter syndrome doesn’t take long to creep in. When you’re surrounded by brilliant peers who seem to just get it, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. But one thing I’m learning is that struggling doesn’t mean failing it means you’re learning. Being kind to myself has become a survival skill . If I could go back and talk to myself four weeks ago, I’d say a few things loud and clear: Balance is key. Don’t treat yourself like a machine. Use every resource — yes, even that one random WhatsApp group. Ask the “dumb” questions— they’re usually the smart ones. Rest. Your brain needs breaks. Mental health ≠ optional . Looking back, these weeks have taught me that university isn’t just about coursework. It’s about growth, connection, and resilience. The path ahead will definitely have more late nights, more bugs, more doubts but also more breakthroughs, community wins, and personal milestones . So if you’re also in your first year and feeling overwhelmed: YOU ARE NOT ALONE. We’re all figuring it out, one step (and one crash error) at a time .
8 likes
Charmaine Elefandi
Charmaine Elefandi

Comments (0)


Link copied!