First Impressions: Here’s What Four Freshmen Think of Princeton

Published Sept. 30, 2021

At the Pre-rade, members of the Class of 2025 shared their initial thoughts about Princeton

What are you most looking forward to doing on campus this semester?

Photo: Sameer A. Khan h’21

“Honestly, just meeting people. It’s been so incredible just to meet everyone during orientation, especially international orientation, and yeah, Americans are very outgoing, so that’s pretty good.” — Afzal Hussain ’25, Dagenham, U.K.

Photo: Sameer A. Khan h’21

“I’m looking forward to the Lawnparties; I heard those are good. And also, extracurriculars. I’m thinking of Model UN, maybe The Daily Princetonian. Also, my classes — they’re really cool.” — Davina Thompson ’25, Greensboro, North Carolina

What class are you most excited about?

Photo: Sameer A. Khan h’21

“My freshman seminar. It’s called ‘Sizing up the Universe.’ It’s about astronomy, and I think it’s really great that it’s going to be a small class, not a big lecture hall. I think it’s great to have that opportunity for freshmen.” — Luke Stockless ’25, Malden, Massachusetts

What do you think of Princeton so far?

Photo: Sameer A. Khan h’21

“The community is really great here. I definitely get that sense that everyone feels really close, and it’s nice to be part of that community today.” — Ellie Berman ’25, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Published in the October 2021 Issue

2025