In today’s episode, co-hosts Sophia and Rosabelle speak with Theo, a 2026 University of Vermont graduate. Theo recounts his college application process, being waitlisted at Columbia, and unexpectedly choosing UVM, where he majored in Political Science and Philosophy.

Theo talks about the classes that influenced him most in college, including a political theory course that shaped how he interpreted political conflict and approached disagreement.

He opens up about maturing intellectually and emotionally, his political and community engagement, deleting social media while in college and developing emotional honesty, communication skills, and maturity through a long-term relationship.

❤️ Subscribe for more conversations about life's biggest transitions.

Learn more: https://sophiamedia.co/MyFirstYear

In today’s episode, we speak with Aaron, a sophomore at the University of Florida. Born in Lima, Peru and raised in Miami, Aaron describes growing up in a largely Hispanic community, learning English quickly after moving to the U.S. with his mother, and enduring intense academic pressure that led to burnout and heated conflicts about leaving home. Unable to afford out-of-state options and facing guilt tied to his mom’s sacrifices, he chose UF and found freedom to be himself and build an LGBTQ friend circle. He describes balancing classes, internships, and a job at Starbucks, while pursuing public relations and journalism, and shares advice about exploring college while staying true to yourself.

Be sure to check out other episodes in the My First Year series, wherever you get your podcasts.

❤️ Subscribe for more conversations about life's biggest transitions.

Learn more: https://sophiamedia.co/MyFirstYear

In Episode 3 of My First Year in College, Sophia and Rosabelle sit down with Shreya, a University of Georgia student, writer, poet, and founder of the autism advocacy nonprofit Color Me Blue.

Shreya reflects on leaving behind the familiarity of home, adjusting to college as an introvert, and finding a group of friends who made her feel truly seen. She shares how poetry helped her process the transition, why she decided it was okay to “care too much,” and how stepping outside her comfort zone opened doors she never expected.

From choosing UGA over her dream of New York City to navigating homesickness, friendship, ambition, and what she calls “future nostalgia,” Shreya’s story is about learning that you don’t need to have your whole future figured out to embrace where you are right now.

You can check out Shreya’s Substack: https://substack.com/@shreyasophie

And her latest poetry book on Amazon 📚https://www.amazon.com/Stars-Puddles-Clouds-My-Eyes/dp/B0FPXRQJLK?ref_=ast_author_mpb

And follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shreyasophie/

❤️ Subscribe for more conversations about life's biggest transitions.

Learn more: https://sophiamedia.co/MyFirstYear