An Honor Code Interview: Reflections from a First-Year Honors Student

For first (and even second) year college students, the CSULB experience has been undeniably unique. The vast majority of us had never even been on campus until the beginning of an already late starting spring semester. As the 2021-22 academic year comes to a close, I thought it would make an interesting Honor Code blog post to write about the experiences and reflections of a first-year Honors program student.

Atani Nelson and I met through the Honors Peer Mentoring Program. We are both first-year students who were looking for some guidance in our first year at CSULB. As such, we both share a similar experience of entering college life during the distinctive period of COVID-19 restrictions. Below is an interview in which I ask Atani to reflect on her first year at CSULB in the Honors program.

Me: Tell me a little about yourself. What is your major? Do you live on campus?

Atani Nelson: My name is Atani Nelson. I am a first-year student with a pre-major in pre-production animation. I live on campus and I am 19 years old. I like to play volleyball and I enjoy painting, drawing, reading, hanging out with friends, and watching Netflix.

Me: What is your favorite thing about your first year at CSULB?

Atani: I think my favorite thing would be all the connections I have made, whether it be with friends or professors. I have had very positive experiences here so far. I have learned a lot about “adulting” and growing up and just being overall more independent while going here. I also like the sports games and events they have on campus. Overall, I feel pretty at peace here.

Me: What is your favorite thing about being an Honors student?

Atani: The Honors classes are my favorite. You would think the classes would be really overwhelming and stressful but I have found the Honors classes to be very fun. They are discussion based which has helped me to feel at ease with my peers. The Honors course I am taking right now is super cool. I love the professor. He makes it very fun and there is no pressure. He also makes a point to check in with the mental wellbeing of the students. I have made friends in these classes and the community is very nice.

Me: Do you prefer online or in person learning?

Atani: I prefer in-person learning all the way. Sometimes when I would open my laptop for Zoom classes I would just want to fall asleep. It is way better to connect with peers and professors in person. With online classes sometimes you just see a bunch of black screens. You only see the faces of students who choose to turn on their camera. I am able to retain things way better in person as well, especially from the professor. In person learning just feels good and I feel more energized. It feels normal and I really enjoy it.

Me: What is your favorite class?

Atani: My favorite class is my Honors communication class with Professor Aaron Fullman. My second favorite class is my art class. The class really helps me feel like I am getting better at my craft. The professor is nice and the class is very fun.

Me: What is your advice for Honors program students coming in for the next school year?

Atani: I would say to not put so much pressure on yourself in terms of getting everything you want done in a certain amount of time. Feel free to reach out to professors if you need any help and there are no stupid questions. Always stay in communication with your advisors and professors. Do not put pressure on yourself, it is your first year. I would also say it is very important to balance the social and academic aspects of your life. Go to the events they have on campus and meet new people. Academics is super important and should always be taken seriously but at the end of the day we are human so we should also make time to have fun!