Whether it’s with a professor, friend, roommate or employer, making a good first impression (and even a second and third) is always crucial. However as college students, many of us have come to realize that know matter how hard we strive for the perfect reputation it is not always possible.
Being a junior, it is reasonable to say I have racked up my fair share of embarrassing tales. Whether it’s a drunken mishap, a blowout with a roommate or even being that student to be called out in class while browsing Facebook, I can regrettably say I’ve been there.
Although in the moment I may have wanted to start filling out my transfer application, I eventually came to realize it wasn’t really the end of my college career. As bad as any undesirable moment may seem, it is likely someone else has been there too.
Youtube Sensation
Andrew J. a junior at Boston University recalls his own regrettable moment during his sophomore year. “An embarrassing video ended up surfacing after getting in a fight with one of my new fraternity brothers during the Superbowl. Instead of letting it get to me, I embraced my fanhood and recovered by taking pride in my foolishness and showed the video to my friends and joked about it.”
Social blunders are common among undergrads whether it’s a result of alcohol or just an impulsive reaction. Ultimately, a college student’s ability to learn the art of laughing at themselves will help them in the long run.
Awkward Anonymous
Kaitlyn M. a junior at Boston College remembers a similar situation after making a bad introduction with her freshmen leadership group. “It was the type of thing where you just have to awkwardly deal with it and laugh it off the best you can,” says Kaitlyn.
While social mishaps are often typical, many students also find themselves stuck in the middle of classroom and school-related dilemmas. During her freshmen year Kaitlyn recalls going out the night before a math midterm and enduring the consequences the following morning. While some students learn to resist the allure of the weekday social scene early on, others do not.
So how does one recover? “I went to my teacher after my test and talked about what opportunities I could take to improve my grade,” Kaitlyn said. Naturally this meant extra credit and putting in a lot of effort for the both of the following exams. Luckily for Kaitlyn, she was able to successfully recover and redeem her reputation with her teacher.
Keep Calm and…Just Ask
Preston S. a senior at the University of Maryland experienced the aftermath of a bad first impression after being forced to ask a professor numerous times for letter of recommendation. Although he worried about coming off as bothersome to the teacher, the professor eventually agreed to write his letter for grad school. For Preston, the situation was one that didn’t necessarily need to be redeemed. A classic case where it is best to keep calm and carry on.
No matter what quandary a student may find himself or herself in it is important to remember that it is never to late to bounce back. Besides, these are the prime years for mistakes and recovery–so experience, learn and try, try again.
