u/Just_Ad776

Now that homecoming is pretty much over with more exams underway each time I see my family again I'm constantly reminded about how sad I get when they leave- especially as an OOS student. However, I know this applies to many students not just out of state but in state.

For the first time freshman students just do know the feeling doesn't go away and at least for me hasn't gotten easier. It's really hard sometimes to process that the gaps you don't see your family members it appears that while nothing may have changed a lot does at the same time whether it's through seeing more grey hairs, updates about financial situations, or just life updates as a whole.

The reality is this is part of adulting and is normal. Before I left for college I was constantly arguing with my family quite often about how excited I was to leave (I'd also say how I wouldn't talk to them... yeah not proud of this btw..) Looking back my family wasn't the most strict but they we're definitely limiting at times. I couldn't go to sleepovers and those kind of things. Now that I've left and spent some a good amount of time in college I have so many moments where I remember the time we all shared one household and have come to realized that they really did all they could to protect me because they knew they couldn't forever. I would have to experience things on my own. As time passed my family become very chill and supportive of a lot of the stuff I've done at Rutgers and for that I'm always appreciative of them.

Not sure exactly what I wanna get at with this post but hopefully some of you guys can relate to this. While the "RUScrew" definitely exists this school has really helped me grow as a person and opened my perspective a lot. It's also made me realize just how much parents sacrifice for us cause man... those times my fridge be empty I be reminiscing about the days they were full and supplied... LOL

Got to campus this morning and I see multiple LX's flashing the Beat Indiana light...

What's our predictions for this weekend's game? LOL...

With Welcome-Week pretty much wrapped up and classes officially starting I know some of you out there may feel like you're alone. Everyone seems like they have their own established friend groups, may be scary to talk to strangers, or maybe you're homesick... that's completely normal.

I've written a few times already on here as an Out of State student and you are not the only one who has felt this during your time here at Rutgers. Listen...

PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE!

I was quiet in high school. I stayed to myself and a few friends but when I came here I found a good group of people just roaming around different clubs and growing out of my comfort zone. I know being quiet and not socializing
would only make me feel more alone. Don't get me wrong, I still value my alone time and like to chill by myself but let me say this; Rutgers has clubs that will cater to almost all interests... and if they don't cater to your specific one there may be another club that targets your other interests. You don't have to be alone and humans are not meant to be alone (unless you're a homebody or value your privacy) but even then get out of your comfort zone. By the way, during my time here at Rutgers I've never attended a single frat or "party" but I've had the time of my life. To each their own but take it as you will. It may seem like everyone with their group is just going out to party and get drunk but there is people out there who like to workout/do sports together, play video games, board games, fashion, bond over cars, photography clubs, nature hangouts, etc.. Rutgers really has all of this. I also highly recommend you at least attend one of our football games. I've gone solo to a football game and while it isn't as fun with having people around you'll still have a great time depending on what you make of it.

You will be fine, give it time. If it still doesn't feel that way later on at least you can say you gave it a shot. But even then, as young adults being uncomfortable is how you grow and learn. If you do decide college or Rutgers isn't even for you- at least you gained new insights and experiences to take with you.

Don't be too hard on yourselves. God bless.

First off, welcome to Rutgers!

I wanted to write this post to let you guys know that you all will be okay. As a fellow out of state student, when I first came, I was super hesitant to socialize. However, I knew that if I didn't socialize I wouldn't get anywhere or establish connections. For most of you, this is probably your first time living alone or with a stranger. However, I am writing this not just towards the Out of State students but incoming Freshman as well

Here is my best advice for you.

1. Take a deep breath, process. It's easier said then done but genuinely give it time and you will be okay. If you still feel bad and want to leave at least you gave it a try. Give yourself credit for that.

2. SOCIALIZE SOCIALIZE SOCIALIZE! Some of my closest friends we're from clubs I visited once, got their connection, and never ended up showing up again. Rutgers has clubs that seem to cater to every interest! There's music clubs, art clubs, stem clubs, fashion, religion, etc. Rutgers is a big school but if you put yourself out there you will genuinely find your community.

3. Talk to your parents. Coming from someone who argued with family a lot during HS/had family always busy due to work I always said "I can't wait to leave... you won't hear from me" Man, let me tell you it hits like a truck. If anything, my parents became super chill the more I communicated with them. Communication is key. I'm closest to my family now then I ever was.

4. Be mindful and respectful. This doesn't mean you can't goof off and have fun but remember your actions now have consequences. Be nice to people because you never know how many people are affected by even the smallest gestures. College is a time to have fun but don't use the "fun" excuse to put down others for social media, slack on academics, or act childish for the fun of it.

5. Remember you have a goal. Everyone is here with their own life experiences chasing their own dreams. Don't belittle anyone just because they may have a different pursuit then you. You never know who is your boss or coworker someday.

I give you all my best regards and remember you are here for a reason.

For all my fellow out of state students / OOS alumni out there why did you choose Rutgers? I chose Rutgers because I wanted to see what it was like to attend a school with such a high population, strong academics, and proximity to the city. With tuition prices only increasing how could you guys justify it? Does the experience and networking solidify your choice to stay at Rutgers? Let me know!

Hi all,

I'm considering purchasing either a used or new Buick, depending on what deal I can get. The used market is pretty horrible right now, so I figured it really depends. For any Buick owners, how has your experience been? I've only had experience with primarily Japanese-owned brands. In terms of American cars.. I drove an XT5 and a Wrangler previously. HATED IT! Had so many issues. I would love to hear any experiences Buick owners here have. I've heard some positive things, hence why I'm going to Reddit to ask for even more feedback.

The budget is around $20,000 used, and I'm willing to go as high as $30,000 either used (low/mid mileage) or new if possible at that price. This is more of a vehicle for someone in the family to drive, and of course we want a safe and reliable vehicle. If I do choose Buick, I most likely will be shopping for this car in Delaware or around the metro DC area, so if you've had good experiences with any dealerships in that area, please let me know!

Does anyone know when tuition for the upcoming fall semester is released? Is it early August? Thanks!

Hi.

I'm a college student looking to build credit. I've heard some good things about the Discover It Student Cash Back cards and was just looking to hear input from fellow college students or anyone who has previously used them. I also have Navy Federal, but was just curious which you guys think I should stay consistent and priortize more long term? Perhaps I should use both for differnet circumstances throughout? Sorry if this seems like a silly question but just in need of some financial guidance. Thank you!

Hello,

I recently moved to New Jersey, and truth be told, it's a huge adjustment. I'm not from too far away, as I initially lived in the metro DC area (approximately 3 hours away), but man, everything is so different here. Your roads suck (potholes everywhere). Traffic, fortunately, isn't as bad as in DC, but things are very dense and tight here. I'm pretty sure I read that Jersey is among the most densely populated states, so it makes sense. I've been to Newark, Fort Lee, Secaucus, East Orange, and Jersey City (basically all the mainstream city areas in Jersey)

I do have my car and family here now, so I want to do some exploring this summer. I also have a good number of friends I made here at Rutgers who are willing to hang out this summer, and I will say many of y'all in Jersey have been the nicest and chillest people I've met.

Would appreciate any recommendations on any spots to visit, whether it's nature, city-like, or even restaurants and hangout spots to check out!