Dear Kristen,
My friend just started school here and she is paranoid about gaining the Freshman 15. Is it as true as they say it is?
Signed,
Curious
Dear Curious,
Luckily, your friend’s not alone! Conversations about the dreaded Freshman 15 have been popping up everywhere. To answer your question though, yes and no. Contrary to popular belief, most freshman only gain about five pounds, so this should ease her mind. You can also suggest that she walk back and forth from school when she can instead of driving or taking the shuttle, as well as eating healthy. She can also use the fitness center on the first floor. Most importantly, though, remind your friend that she need not be paranoid, because she is in complete control over her body. If she stays focused on being healthy and fit, excessive weight gain won’t even be an issue!
_______
Dear Kristen,
I have an INSANE teacher!!! This woman has issues and I can’t deal with it anymore. It’s to the point where I wake up angry the day I have her class!!! Is there ANYTHING I can do?
Signed,
Stressed Out
Dear Stressed,
First off, I know exactly how you feel! I had a language arts teacher in high school who was impossible to deal with (she got mad at people for her own mistakes)! As crazy as it may sound, the best thing you can do is keep your cool. It’s always best to have a professor’s respect no matter how neurotic he or she is. You may have to go back to that professor one day to get a job reference or a recommendation letter — you never know. Second, if it is a matter of her not explaining the lesson, seek clarification from another professor who teaches the same subject. Third, keep in mind that your time with the professor will not last forever. If you know any upper classmen, ask if they know anything about the teachers you may have for the next quarter. In the meantime, try not to get too stressed out, you’ll be out of the class soon!
Take care,
Kristen
