Talking with Maddie Nguyen, my former doubles partner, my best friend, and an SGHS alum now at the University of California, Riverside, felt like getting a real look at what college is actually like. She used to be the person I warmed up with before every tennis match, and now she’s learning how to navigate dorm life, new friendships, and real independence. Maddie told me the biggest adjustment was being on her own for the first time, but finding a close friend group made everything feel a lot less overwhelming.
She explained that college classes are completely different from what we’re used to at SGHS. No more constant reminders from teachers; everything depends on your own motivation. Despite that, Maddie said UCR’s atmosphere is super open and welcoming, filled with events and people who make it easy to connect. Most of her friends came from random moments in her dorm’s game room, where one small interaction turned into a whole group. Even though sharing a small room and walking everywhere took getting used to, she said those challenges helped her build better discipline and time management.
Maddie’s biggest advice for SGHS seniors is not to stress too much about the transition. “You’ll figure it out,” she told me, encouraging us to stay open to new experiences and not be afraid to branch out. Hearing her perspective, coming from someone I’ve shared wins, losses, and endless laughs with, made college feel less intimidating and reminded me that once a Matador, always a Matador.
