Student Testimonials
What advice would you give to a first year?
"Some advice that I would give to an incoming student - I would say that there is a lot of free time that you would have that you would not expect- I would say to involve yourself in campus life, especially at a smaller school like Washington and Lee- it is key to meeting new people, creating new friendships, connections, and relationships with students and faculty! I would also suggest the advice of utilizing the connections that are available at hand- whether it be the athletic facilities, counseling center, Greek life, library, peer tutoring, clubs, alumni resources, or even something as simple as office hours, there is something for everyone and it is pivotal to take advantage of the free resources available at hand!"
Ishaan Bhadouria '27
"A piece of advice I would give to an incoming student is to be kind to everyone. Sometimes people act differently when they're new and anxious, but you cannot take that personally. Instead be patient and kind because you never know where you might meet a new friend."
Katie Stone ‘27
"My advice I would give to an incoming student would be to think about what you value and spend your time accordingly. For me, freshman year of college was the first time in my life that I did not have enough time in the day to squeeze in everything that I wanted to do. There are a million different ways to do it correctly, you just have to think about what is important to you personally and spend your time accordingly. Don't let yourself get caught spending all your times on things that you aren't looking for in your college experience! Good luck!"
James Kull ‘27
"One piece of advice I have for incoming first years is to get to know the upperclassmen! Odds are, you'll have lots of questions about what to do for fun or otherwise (especially for registration). They've been in your position before and have learned what to do, or even what not to do. They will also be more than happy to help you when it feels like the world is hitting you all at once. Make time for self-care and prioritize sleep so that when this does happen, you'll be able to successfully conquer that overwhelming feeling. A successful First-Year student throws themselves into any opportunity of interest, invests the time to get to know their peers deeper than surface level, and stays true to their values! Stay true to who you are, be honest and genuine, and don't change for anyone!"
Molly Pennisi ‘24
"I wish I had known how much support I was really going to have. Just in Graham-Lees I have my RA, the RA on the hall next door, and some of my best friends. That's not to mention the Peer Counselors, the professors, my faculty advisor, and so many others willing to help with whatever I need. A successful First-Year student is one who is doing what they love. Whether that's a sport, hanging out with friends, exploring campus, studying hard, joining every club or just one, or even all of the above, a successful First-Year is doing what makes them happy and comfortable in their new community."
Jess Kishbaugh ‘24
What was your Leading Edge trip?
"My Leading-Edge trip, Volunteer Venture Law & Justice, was the perfect start to my time at W&L. It blended service, learning, and community in a way that made my transition both easier and more meaningful. Volunteering with local organizations and discussing systemic issues gave me a deeper understanding of law, justice, and the importance of service-learning. At the same time, VV was incredibly fun; group activities, late-night conversations, and shared meals made the trip feel like a family, and those friendships have lasted far beyond the first week. Our reflections helped me see how students can thoughtfully engage with communities, and the experience was so impactful that it inspired me to become a VV leader. VV was truly a whirlwind of learning, friendship, and memories I'll never forget."
Hannah Grace Kornberg '27
"I went on Appalachian Adventure, which meant five days of backpacking in the woods with no phone, seven other first-years, and three incredible leaders. That trip helped me push beyond my comfort zone and gave me an instant community at W&L before classes even started. Our trip leaders made the transition feel less scary, and the friendships I built carried into my first year and beyond. If you're feeling nervous, just know that this kind of immersive experience can be a powerful way to connect with people, with nature, and with yourself."
Gaby White '27
"My Leading Edge trip was Sustainability. While I had hoped to go on App Adventure, I still had a great time with my leading edge trip. Being on campus allowed me to settle into the dorm and get to know people from not only my trip, but the other trips that spend time on campus. I also learned so much about W&L's sustainability initiatives and got to spend time outdoors, both things that were important to me."
Katalyn Denby '26
"My Leading Edge trip when I was a first-year was Volunteer Venture in West Virginia! I loved getting to help various communities in need while learning about the causes of food and housing insecurity. It was also great forming connections with the W&L alumni in the area who hosted us. Most importantly, I got to meet some of my best friends who I still talk to on a daily basis on that trip!"
Meg Liwag ‘27