James Madison University visit

News staffers visit James Madison University and ask school alumnus Joey Needham for advice on making the transition from high school senior to freshman in college.

Q: What is the biggest struggle you’ve faced so far in college?

A: “Having multiple tests on the same day and trying not to be distracted when studying. It is really hard to stay focused especially when friends ask you to do stuff, but you have a test the next day.”

Q: What are the positives and negatives of living with a roommate? Did you know your roommate previous to living together?

A: “The positive things about having a roommate is that there is always someone to talk to and it makes the transition easier. The negative things about it are that you really get to know someone when you live with them. It’s a good and bad thing.  If you like your space it might be a little rough, but I don’t mind. I had met my roommate previous to coming to college.”

Q: What did you leave at home that you wish you had brought?

A: “My football, because on Saturdays, when there is a football game, my friends and I want to throw the football but none of us have one so we can’t.”

Q: How is your college environment different from that of Virginia Beach?

A: “It is colder and people dress differently. A lot more Vineyard Vines and preppy style. It’s basically a mini city. There’s everything you need in walking distance there’s like 20,000 people your age, so you meet someone new almost every day.”