Freshman struggle their first year at College

By: Nick Baker

College is a huge step for high school graduates, and for many the transition is difficult, so difficult in fact that only 77.5 percent of last years CMU freshman returned this year.

Apparently these numbers are not abnormal though, with the average drop out rate being close to 30 percent.

CMU’s drop out rate is also similar to other colleges in the state. At Western Michigan University, 73.4 percent of last year’s freshman returned this year. This is also typical for WMU, with their average drop out rate falling between 73 and 76 percent.

With only three quarters of all freshmen returning for a sophomore year, these new students must be having a difficult time adjusting to college life.

Jessica Wilt, a 19-year-old freshman from Berkley, says that dorm life was a lot more difficult than she thought it would be. With no sisters back at home, living with three girls in a Cobb Hall bedroom was quite a change.

“I’m not used to living with other girls,” Said Wilt, “I like having my own space and privacy. It’s hard getting used to having very little personal space.”

Jessica is also struggling with her shyness; she came here knowing very few people and is having a hard time making new friends.

“I’m just not very outgoing,” said Wilt, “I know a couple people up here, but I wish a few of my close friends came here. It’s hard meeting new people.”

Although Jessica is having trouble getting used to her new life, she doesn’t have any plans of leaving CMU. Not all students are planning on returning next fall though.

Ali Lamkin, a 19-year-old freshman from St. Claire Shores, isn’t sure if she is going to continue her college career at CMU.

“It’s a good school,” said Lamkin, “I just don’t think it’s for me. I’m going to stay until I finish my first year, but I don’t know if I’ll come back. I think I’d like to be somewhere closer to home.”
Having trouble adjusting to college life seems to be a challenge for everyone, and while most decide to stay here at CMU, some find other choice