Parsons Paris

First Year advice from a Sophomore

Araz Tapeh, Parsons Paris class of 2022, reflects on her time as a First Year student at Parsons Paris.

I remember my First Year as if it happened only yesterday. There were many positive experiences but also some challenging times. Here are some things I learned early on that helped me have a successful year:

1. Always ask Questions
   Alright, I’ll admit it: I was very much confused for the first month of my Fall semester. There was information being passed to me by my professors but sometimes I couldn’t seem to grasp what they were actually expecting from me in terms of a finished piece. To combat this problem, even when I was just a little uncertain about a project requirement or homework assignment, I would always ask questions and email my professors. That helped clear things up and give me more confidence in how I moved forward with my projects.
2. Experiment
   First year is a chance to get as creative as you want. The projects you’ll be handed may sometimes have a set medium but other times it’s up to you! So go beyond your limits and out of your comfort zone and experiment with Photoshop, Illustrator, laser cutter, etc. You can always consolidate your ideas with the help of the Lab Technicians at Parsons Paris.
3. Use your Resources
   Being a Parsons Paris Student has many advantages and gives you access to lots of resources, so definitely take advantage of them! We have access to a rich online library to help nourish our essays and projects conceptually. We also have English as a Second Language that can be used by Native English speakers as well (you can book an appointment via Starfish and perfect your research papers). And of course, The Tech Lab, where the technicians are always there to help whether it be with the presentation of your final project or use of software like Photoshop.
4. Stay organized
   This is an obvious one but sometimes forgotten. Organization is the key to success! Find a way that fits you whether it be a To Do List App, Google Calendar, a physical Planner, or even Post It Notes covering your apartment, to keep track of everything that needs to be done.
5. Always be on time 
   I can’t stress this enough! You may potentially be missing important pieces of information related to your class or project. Also, when you’re constantly late to classes it can reflect poorly on your attitude and effort towards the class. So, make sure you’re always on time and prepared, it’ll be greatly appreciated by your professors. Note: If you use the Metro; leave your apartment early in anticipation that the metro will get stuck!
6. Take it easy
   Last but not least, relax! Freshman year can be intense because the format of your learning may completely transform and it may take a while before you settle, that’s completely normal. Always remember to take some time to relax both physically and mentally. And remember that between your teachers, the staff and fellow students, you have a great support system around you.

Good luck and have fun!!