With classes starting at Georgetown this week, first-year students are starting the next chapter of their lives as Hoyas.
We asked a few of our Georgetown Storytellers to share their wisdom on college life and favorite memories from their first year on the Hilltop. Here’s what they said.
Ninabella Arlis (C’26, B’26) 
My favorite memory from my first year at Georgetown: My friends and I hopped on a train for an hour-long ride to Old Town Alexandria. We spent the day exploring boutiques and bookstores, sampling French and Thai cuisine, and even visiting one of the oldest buildings in the area, now a Starbucks. It’s a wonderful example of the hidden gems we’re lucky enough to have nearby.
What I wish I knew sooner: Nothing ever goes to waste. The years you spent learning a sport, even if you were cut from the high school team, can still benefit you in intramural sports. The class you took for a major you eventually decided not to pursue might have guided you to your current path. No effort is truly squandered. You just have to trust yourself.
Bennie Chang (SFS’26)
My favorite memory from my first year at Georgetown: My first year was filled with countless fond memories with friends, but my favorite was ice skating at the National Gallery of Art at the end of the first semester. There is something magical about watching my friends gracefully land double axels. Ice skating has become a tradition for us, and I can’t wait to continue it this year!
What I wish I knew sooner: I wish I had realized sooner that everyone has a story to tell, often one you would never expect. It could be a secret talent or a life-changing experience that has shaped who they are. I encourage you to take the time to get to know others on a deeper level — those relationships will likely become some of the most meaningful ones.
Mara Goldstein (C’27) 
My favorite memory from my first year at Georgetown: Experiencing snow for the first time! Because I grew up in a tropical region, I never got the chance to play in the snow. This past January, I finally got to throw snowballs with my friends, make snow angels and build snowmen! I spent the entire season making wonderful memories with all of my closest friends.
What I wish I knew sooner: I wish I knew to worry less and be more adaptable. There will always be times when things won’t go exactly how you want them to, but the easiest way to get through the rough patches is to stop worrying and try your best. The first year of college is scary, but it’s also incredibly exciting!
Grace Hardymon (C’25)
My favorite memory from my first year at Georgetown: On my first night living in Harbin Hall, my roommate and I took the metro to the Washington Monument with some of our neighbors. We sat at its base and took in this landmark of our new home. I love looking back on this night when I got to know not only DC but also some of my closest friends!
What I wish I knew sooner: I wish I knew that you have so much time to narrow in on your interests and activities during your first year. There is no need to rush — explore and enjoy every moment!
Sydney Carroll (C’27) 
My favorite memory from my first year at Georgetown: Having a midnight snowball fight with my friends during the first snow of the winter. We had so much fun, and it was a great reminder that even though we work super hard, we’re still allowed to have fun.
What I wish I knew sooner: Don’t be afraid to do things you don’t necessarily enjoy. There are going to be a lot of uncomfortable moments, but it’s in those uncomfortable moments that you find the other people who are uncomfortable, and that’s when they become your friends!
Alex Johnson (C’25)
My favorite memory from my first year at Georgetown: Georgetown Day! It was so fun and exciting to see the entire campus come together to celebrate the end of the year. It’s definitely something that all freshmen should look forward to!
What I wish I knew sooner: It’s okay to not know what you want to do. It takes time to discover what you’re passionate about and where you want to put your time, so don’t rush into it!
