Freshmen Reflect on the New Year

When polled on their favorite ND experiences so far, the freshman class confirmed what upperclassmen already know: the cookies truly are a highlight at Notre Dame. Aside from the delicious snacks, other popular responses included going downtown, enjoying otter pops at a social event, and meeting new teachers. 

However, one answer far outnumbered the rest. Alejandra Rodriguez ‘25 says her highlight has been “making new friends and meeting new people everyday,” and many of her classmates echoed the same sentiment. Amidst the excitement and chaos of starting a new school year, ND’s welcoming community makes the experience special.

It goes without saying that this year’s freshmen have weathered a multitude of changes. Several of them cite the transition to a larger school, as well as an all girls environment, to be major adjustments. Global pandemic aside, starting high school can be a confusing time. Notre Dame is “a place filled with new people and new opportunities,” and, as Toad Baluta ‘25 says, “it can be overwhelming.” This only makes supportive friendships all the more crucial.

While social life has been the overwhelming highlight for the freshman class, it has also proven to be one of the biggest challenges. “Making friends has been fun,” says Maya Schechtman ‘25, but has also been “the hardest thing so far.” This is true in any instance—the thrill of meeting new people often comes with a bit of anxiety. However, for the Class of 2025, this can feel magnified. One freshman describes the shift to in person learning as a “surprising” contrast to “a year and a half by myself.”

For the most part, Notre Dame’s social life has been a positive presence—Mia Murray ‘25 enthusiastically says “IT IS GREAT SO FAR!!!!” Rodriguez ‘25 agrees, calling ND a “huge support” in her first month of high school. However, many students are left wanting more. Shirley Pham ‘25 says that “more freshmen events would be nice” as an opportunity to bond with classmates. Others shared similar suggestions, as well as requests for activities with big sisters and upperclassmen. Notre Dame’s student body is welcoming, vibrant, and integral to the freshmen experience; as the year continues, social opportunities should be a top priority.