When did you know your university was the right fit?
I’ve been asked this question recently, and my answer always gets a few puzzled looks. I often say my time at the University of Tampa was the best three and a half years of my life. Naturally, people ask, “Wait, weren’t you there for four years?” Yes, I was—but not all four years felt like “the best.” Here’s why.
Starting Blind: How I Chose My University
Unlike many students who research schools extensively, I went in blind. My high school ROTC instructor recommended the University of Tampa, I glanced at a course catalog, saw that it had pre-med and biology programs, and applied. That was it. I didn’t check student demographics, tuition costs, or even basic campus life details. I never visited the school or took a tour. The university was 900 miles away, and I didn’t want to burden my mother with the cost of visiting. I simply trusted my instructor’s advice and enrolled.
A Rocky Start
My first semester was rough. I had a bad roommate experience, struggled to adjust to the culture, and felt completely out of place. The University of Tampa was a small, private school where about 95% of the student body was white, while I had come from a predominantly Black high school. I had no idea how to navigate this new environment.
To make matters worse, I was naturally introverted. Making connections didn’t come easily, and I found myself struggling to find “my people.” Looking back, I had plenty of resources—my mother was a college graduate, and several of my uncles had attended college—but I hadn’t sought advice about what to expect. I was unprepared for the transition.
A Turning Point: Finding My People
Everything changed in my second semester when I met Frank from Queens, NY. He was going through similar struggles, and we decided to become roommates. That one decision altered the course of my college experience.
Once I had a solid friend, I found the confidence to branch out. I started engaging with other students, participating in activities, and stepping outside my comfort zone. I joined a student organization’s talent show, applied to be a Resident Assistant (RA)—and, to my surprise, got the job. By the end of my freshman year, I was not only finding my people, but I was also discovering my purpose.
The Best 3 ½ Years
Sophomore year was a game-changer. With my new RA role, increased involvement in ROTC, and a work-study job, I was constantly engaging with students. I joined student diversity committees, the core curriculum committee, and other campus initiatives. The more I got involved, the more opportunities came my way.
I was still young and made my share of mistakes, but the university provided countless opportunities for me to grow, lead, and contribute. By spring of sophomore year, I knew I would graduate from this school. I had my people, I had my passion, and I had a community that supported my growth.
How Do You Know If a School Is Right for You?
Every student’s journey is different, but if you’re trying to determine whether your school is the right fit, ask yourself two questions:
1. Have you found your people? – Do you have a support system, friends, or mentors who make you feel like you belong?
2. Have you found your passion? – Are you engaged in activities that excite you and help you grow?
If your school fosters both, you’re probably in the right place.
What about you? How did you know your school was the right fit—or not? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
#CollegeLife #FindingYourFit #MyCollegeJourney #StudentSuccess #CollegeAdvice
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