JACOB's Update from PRINCETON
"I was expecting to find everyone only caring about their own success, but nobody is really trying to put their peer down for a competitive advantage."
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Chemical engineering major Jacob tells us about adjusting to college and life as a student at Princeton University.
How did you adjust to college life?
Moving to an out-of-state college was a big adjustment, especially since I didn’t know anyone before arriving at Princeton. It was hard to make friends in the first two weeks, when I was still settling in, but once I joined study groups and extracurriculars, I found a supportive circle. One of the biggest challenges was adjusting to my freshman living situation — my roommate’s erratic sleeping habits and snoring made it hard to get rest, and I would have appreciated more control over roommate selection.
However, I’ve come to appreciate the communal atmosphere at Princeton. People are surprisingly supportive, always looking out for one another despite the academic rigor and reputation for grade deflation. I was expecting to find everyone only caring about their own success, but nobody is really trying to put their peer down for a competitive advantage.
What was your academic experience like during freshman year?
Freshman year academics were demanding. Princeton's classes are intense, especially in the engineering pre-requisites like advanced calculus and physics. I expected college to be harder than high school, but it wasn’t until I got my first grades back that I realized the shift in expectations. Despite the pressure, I've learned that college is more about personal and academic growth than maintaining a perfect GPA. Time management was crucial — I even deleted Instagram and TikTok to focus on getting enough sleep and staying productive. Outside the classroom, I joined Engineers Without Borders, a group committed to empowering communities through engineering projects. This extracurricular, alongside the research I did over the summer with a professor, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my freshman year.
"Exploring how fish farming impacts Peruvian artisanal fishers" — Jacob presents his research on aquaculture and poverty at Princeton’s Writing Seminar conference.
What was life like on campus?
Living in Forbes Hall was both a blessing and a challenge. While the dorm is of decent quality, its location far from the engineering buildings made getting to classes a daily trek. Princeton’s town, though, is fantastic — it's lively and student-friendly, with plenty of dining options that accept our dining points. My favorite spot on campus is East Pyne, with its beautiful brownstone exterior and cozy interior. It’s where I feel most connected to the historic charm of the university.
Aerial view of sunrise in Princeton, New Jersey.
How did you manage your money as a college student?
Managing money in college was a learning experience. With my summer savings from a sandwich shop job, I purchased a certificate of deposit (CD) to safeguard my funds against inflation. I’ve also tried to keep my spending in check, particularly avoiding the temptation of pricey food delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash. Instead, I save those splurges for special occasions. One unexpected expense has been my bike — I bought it used, and while it’s been great for getting around, keeping it in good shape has meant frequent purchases of new parts and tools. Thankfully, I’ve been able to manage these costs with my credit card, earning cash back while building my credit history.
Are you happy with your choice of college so far?
Looking back, I’m happy with my choice to attend Princeton. The initial transition was challenging, but it has helped me grow as a person and a student. Moving forward, my focus is on continuing to build financial responsibility and staying committed to my studies and extracurricular pursuits. While the first year had its ups and downs, it laid a strong foundation for the rest of my college journey.
