Ask Me Anything! with Sawyer

Your college experience is truly what you make it. Class of 2023 graduate Sawyer Slocum can say this is true and has had a college experience rich with friendships, opportunities and memories she won’t ever forget. Now, she’s sharing her story with future Broncos in an episode of Ask Me Anything.

Why Boise State?

College applications are stressful enough, but after admission choosing the right school to attend was equally exciting and difficult for Sawyer. In her senior year of high school, Sawyer discovered it all came down to what factors were most important to her. She narrowed it down to three things: academic programs, community and cost-effectiveness.

While initially unsure after a tour during her Spring Break, she warmed up to Boise State when considering the prospect of taking advantage of automatic nonresident scholarships, exploring areas of study from a selection of over 200 academic programs and getting to go to school with friends she knew from her hometown.

Not to mention the draw of a vibrant campus community united by school spirit. While new to Slocum, it quickly became evident that Boise State’s famous blue turf is a point of pride in Boise, with school spirit spreading beyond the students to the city.

Slocum’s experiences attending Bronco athletic events early on made one thing evident: “There is something so special about the way our community rallies around our football team that makes for such a fun atmosphere,” she says. “There really is nothing like it!”

Going to Bronco games with your friends is one of the most popular campus events at Boise State, and for good reason!

Moving Away from Home and Finding Community

Moving away from home is an experience that many college students go through in their first year. The plus side? You’re not alone.

Traveling almost 900 miles from her hometown in Orange County to attend school in Boise, Idaho was no small feat. But living as a college student in one of the fastest growing cities in the US presented an exciting opportunity for Slocum to immerse herself in a welcoming community of young people.

“It was definitely an adjustment,” says Slocum, “But it was honestly welcome.”

Boise State has a comprehensive orientation program that introduces incoming students to campus life, helps them build connections with peers, and familiarizes them with campus resources.

While a change of pace for Slocum, she found that Boise struck the right balance between  being a college town or a big city. With a vibrant downtown district just steps from campus, there are many ties that bring the city and school together.

Slocum encourages students to “be comfortable with getting uncomfortable”. There are so many opportunities and activities to take advantage of. As scary as it can seem to meet new people, there are so many others in the exact same boat. Join a club or invite your neighbor or your classmate to one of the fun on campus events at Boise State!

First Year Challenges

The first year in college can be such a big shift for students. Slocum advises to remember that “everyone else is also feeling similarly”. In a time where your environment is changing, you are forced to step outside your comfort zone. But this is a good thing. College is a place to explore all your interests, and there are so many ways to do so at Boise State.

Boise State offers extensive resources such as academic advising, tutoring services, and study groups to assist students in managing their coursework and adapting to the academic rigor.

Slocum had moments where she questioned her readiness to keep up with the demands of college and planning for her career. “I think sometimes students just don’t know where to start, like it can be hard to know or overwhelming since there’s so much going on,” she says.

The university also prioritizes student well-being by offering counseling services, health clinics, and wellness programs to address the emotional and physical challenges that may arise. With a strong commitment to student success, Boise State University ensures that students have the necessary tools and support to thrive during their first year and beyond!

The first year in college can be such a big shift for students. Slocum advises to remember that “everyone else is also feeling similarly”. In a time where your environment is changing, you are forced to step outside your comfort zone. But this is a good thing. College is a place to explore all your interests, and there are so many ways to do so at Boise State.

Boise State offers extensive resources such as academic advising, tutoring services, and study groups to assist students in managing their coursework and adapting to the academic rigor.

Slocum had moments where she questioned her readiness to keep up with the demands of college and planning for her career. “I think sometimes students just don’t know where to start, like it can be hard to know or overwhelming since there’s so much going on,” she says.

The university also prioritizes student well-being by offering counseling services, health clinics, and wellness programs to address the emotional and physical challenges that may arise. With a strong commitment to student success, Boise State University ensures that students have the necessary tools and support to thrive during their first year and beyond!

Beyond the academic merits, Slocum discovered that Boise State provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in a vibrant community that fosters personal growth and connection. While the first year may present its challenges, such as adjusting to a new environment and academic demands, take  advantage of the extensive support systems and resources that ensure a smooth transition. So, if you’re gonna take a leaf out of Slocums book, embrace the adventure, seize the opportunities, and get ready to create lasting memories in beautiful Boise!