Genevieve Durso
Class of 2018
Major: Psychology
Minor: History
After a long time of contemplating what to do with my life, I thought the only thing notable would be to pursue a profession that would help others. I want to earn a degree in psychology, pursue further education and do social work. I know it doesn’t make lots of money but this is a place where I can actually help people and make a difference in someone’s life. My grandma was a social worker for 20 years and she said it was very strenuous, however she always tells me stories about how she changed people’s life’s. I want to affect people like that too. I also picked history as my minor because I love history.
During my first semester here, I wasn’t much for studying and work. I knew college required work but I didn’t think it would be this much. No one ever really taught me how to study or what to even expect when I got here. Over time, I learned studying techniques and realized that college is more than the professor teaching you, you sometimes teach yourself. I started doing better on tests now and feel more confident.
I would tell any student that is struggling that the only person you can help is yourself. This is the real world and you are responsible for all of your work. I would advise them to make time and schedule out their day, including time for school work and friends. There are many places you can go for help and resources but at the end of the day, you are responsible to take initiative.
What helped me find home at UAlbany was simply leaving my room. During my free time, instead of sitting on my phone or netflix, I went to different rooms and places just to simply socialize and meet new people. I joined a few clubs but found that as long as you get out there and put yourself out there, it can feel like home quickly. Eventually after talking and meeting new people, they will convince you to go with them places you would have never thought of. My friend loves to dance and now we go to tango class every sunday.
If you take a the leap and put your self out there, you will learn something new everyday. Whether it’s in the classroom or the dining halls, your are exposed to so many new things compared to the smalls town some of us are from. You are also learning new things about yourself everyday too which can be a lot of fun. If you keep all of your priorities straight, you will excel in school. Welcome to the best time of your life!
UAlbany Project MyStory 
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