April 2009: Insights into your child's first year

Reflections on freshman year

Taryn Smith ’12 (Voorheesville, NY) is just approaching the end of her first year at Bryant. Looking back, she’s surprised at just how far she’s come in eight short months. 

What made you decide to come to Bryant University? 

I decided on Bryant because it is a small school in New England that was accredited by AACSB International — the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, which is a very prestigious accreditation. I also had heard amazing things about the sense of community at Bryant and was really drawn to the school.  The overall atmosphere is amazing and everybody is very friendly.  Everyone holds the door for one another, smiles, and helps each other out. 

What were the first few days at Bryant like for you?

I think that the Bryant Experience really helped me transition to college life. It gave me time to get to know a bunch of people and become more familiar with the campus. It was a much better way to become acclimated to everything then just being thrown into a mix of 3,300 students from day one!

Was it hard to get used to college classes and the coursework?

I think from the first day I felt like I was in a comfortable learning environment and would really have the opportunity to do my best. I like how class sizes are very small. Also, the campus resources like the Writing Center have really helped me. It’s not at every university that you can make a free appointment to have someone help you read over and review your papers!

FFL is also a great way to get an introduction to Bryant and really learn about all of the campus resources. The sessions on time management and reading to remember were very beneficial to me. 

What was the transition to student life like for you being away from home for the first time?

Bryant does a really great job of helping to get students involved by hosting things like organization fairs, which showcase the clubs and organizations that are available on campus. It is really important to get involved. It gives you something to do outside of academics and helps you meet new people. I’m involved in the Student Programming Board, Helping Hands, the Leadership Development Program, Student Ambassadors, and KIVA (a nonprofit organization that allows people to make microloans directly to entrepreneurs in developing countries). Plus, I’m a lifeguard on campus and will be a freshman RA next year in Hall 14.

What advice would you give to a new Bryant student?

Don’t bring too much stuff! And make sure to leave your dorm room door open so you’ll meet new people—remember that everyone is in the same situation as you on move-in day.

What would you tell parents?

My advice to parents is not to worry. Bryant is a great community and students are well taken care of. I might even be their Resident Assistant next year!