Our guest speaker today was hardly a guest—she’s more like a family member! Annika Villafranca graduated from TGS last year and came in to speak to us about her experiences at college so far. She was our first speaker of the new year!

Annika is a forensic science major at the University of New Haven in Connecticut with a minor in criminal justice. She shared with us some key differences between college and high school. College classes are longer and don’t meet every day. For example, Annika’s “Intro to Forensics” course met once a week for two hours and 45 minutes. This different schedule allows more free time but there is no one there telling you to use your time wisely.

Annika advised us to work on our study and time management skills before college. “Pay attention in class now,” she said. “It will help you in the long run, especially in math.” Annika was very far ahead of her peers in Chemistry because she had learned her unit conversions so well at TGS.

Annika’s study techniques include rewriting and summarizing her notes, and using note cards to learn terminology. “Don’t be afraid to email teachers or go to the tutoring center if you need help,” she said. “Take advantage of all the resources.”

College isn’t just studying and taking tests—it’s all about trying new things and branching out. “Find things that interest you,” Annika told us. She herself enjoys attending campus events with her friends and participating in Dance Club and Forensics Club. We thank Annika for her visit and wish her best of luck in the spring semester!