Hi Everyone, My name is Natalie Murawska and I am 18 years old. Making the transition from high school to college has been difficult for me since the coursework is more challenging and there is much more work that has to be done for each class. The hardest part for me was definitely managing my time and prioritizing, but I am slowly starting to get the hang of it and accept the fact that college isn’t easy. I realized it’s important to be responsible and no one is going to hold you by the hand and tell you what to do, because now is the time that we decide what is best for ourselves. I feel more responsible and willing to work hard to get the most of these four or more years in Baruch. From the start, I had a good impression on Baruch and most of all, I like the diversity in the school.
One of the questions we were asked was what we are most afraid of, and without even thinking I knew my fear was public speaking. I am taking Communications 101 this semester, and even though I dread making speeches, I think this will do me good and practicing speeches and rehearsing will improve my public speaking. It’s definitely taking me out of my comfort zone, but I know that public speaking is gonna be really important in the future so I’d rather start practicing now than later.
Aside from school, I like going to Upstate or Pennsylvania on the weekends, so depending on the season and weather, I’ll either go skiing, applepicking, hiking, or just relaxing outside of the city. I do love the city just as much, but sometimes I like to get away from the busy streets and forget about school and the stress. I started skiing 3 years ago and I found that this is something I really enjoy doing in the winter time. I love being outdoors and trying new things because you can really explore what you like and don’t like, and can discover who you really are as a person. I’m still trying to figure out who I really am and what it is I really like.
I grew up with 3 brothers so I’m happy they always have my back. We get along really well so whenever I feel down, they always try to cheer me up. My family is important to me just as my friends are because I know I can always ask them for help or advice, and it’s a great feeling knowing that people care or want to help you and support you.
In conclusion, Randy Pausch who was a Professor at Carnegie Mellon said before his death that “You can’t change the hands you’re dealt, just how you play the hand.” I agree with this quote and it has a lot of meaning, especially because he was the perfect example of someone who lived by this saying. He was grateful for every day and he tried to make the best of it; this is what I hope to do as well.