Orientation

            Questions, Questions, Questions. These were the only thing I had going into orientation. Sure I had a rough idea of campus, a couple friends at my orientation session, and a schedule of events, but the unknown still puzzled and dampened my confidence. I knew it would be a fun experience, and I couldn’t wait to get on campus for an informative glimpse of next year, but it was bit frightening.

There were all these other kids from all over the state and nation, who I didn’t know at all. I questioned if I would ever be able to find and make quality friendships with someone. Then it clicked during the first of many “information sessions,” these strangers are just like me. They are excited freshmen in many of the same classes, programs, dorms, beliefs, and everybody here at orientation is willing to help each other and looking to make friends just like me. True, it did take some guts to walk up and talk to a complete stranger, but the stranger was more than happy to meet someone and eager to make friends, just like me. Many of these random people or friends of friends have now become facebook friends, and I have kept in contact throughout the summer with them in hopes of hanging out in the fall and developing quality friendships.

The orientation crew really had their act together to prepare us freshmen for the fall. The “information sessions” might have been numerous and long, but they were very informative and helpful. My doubts of rooming in bad dorms were overturned by the guarantee of living in the honors dorms. With the assistance of real academic counselors, I registered for classes, and I am set to graduate on time as of right now. Heaven forbid, I even ordered my costly books. In order to meet people, we had several social events to mingle and small group sessions filled with icebreakers and games. The suspicions of bad cafeteria food were proven wrong by the quality food served. All of the student leaders were eager to assist and created a home atmosphere in just two days. Between the leaders, university programs, help networks, and my new friends, I now know I will have a successful, fun, safe, and comfortable college career.

Packing

Move-in day is three days away, and I don’t know what to take. Of course, mom wants me to be prepared for anything and everything by packing a whole U-haul truck, but dorms can only hold so much stuff between two people. The towels, dictionary, notebooks, bible, lamps, sheets, comforter, TV, DVD player, original Nintendo console, microwave, memorabilia, posters, curtains, graduation gifts, blankets, computer, fan, pillows, and clothes for all four seasons have already accumulated into a pile in my room comparable to a small car, and I’m wondering if there will be room for me and my roommate in the dorm. I have already heard stories of parents bringing back extra belongings that my fellow graduates took for their move-in date. So the eenie meenie minie mo process has begun.

One issue has been bothering me recently. College is meant to make new, life-lasting memories, but I don’t want to forget my life from high school or over drown my room and college life with the past. So that presents the dilemma of packing quality reminders. Obviously, a family picture, a cross from church, and key gifts from close friends. This should be sufficient for now, after all memories are mental not physical.

Now, I only have to figure out how to pack everything into the two cars and make time for the numerous, farewell lunch dates.

About Me, Myself, and I

     I was born and raised in Southern Alabama. I am very close with my family and enjoy spending time with them. I am religious and have been involved with several churches. Between these three things, I have firmly rooted morals. I am very honest and will do the honorable deed in any situation. I am humble and even quiet in certain situations. Don’t get me wrong, I am rather outgoing and have numerous close friends. I have experienced a lot and feel very well rounded. I have several beliefs, priorities, and goals for which I hope to conquer here in college and they go as follows.

     First and foremost, my relationship with God is number one. Through him, I can do anything, and I wish to strengthen our relationship. Even though many people lose their way during college, I will always remember where I came from. By no way will I force any beliefs upon you, the reader, or preach endlessly.

     Second, my family is very important to me. They have molded and enriched my life. They are always there for me, and I will never forget them. Like with God, there is a large physical distance between us, but I will stay connected with them.

     Third on my list of priorities is the all important reason of attending college, academics. Knowledge is the power to success, and I wish to have the most powerful engine to drive there. I will work relentlessly and earn my degree with honors. I eventually want to attend graduate school and earn a master’s degree or PhD.

     Fourth, I wish to make connections and have fun. There are so many wonderful individuals and professors here and I want to learn from all of them. I wish to diversify myself by interacting with as many people as possible. There are many outlets for entertainment here on campus to enjoy. Also, I wish to remember all situations while some fellow students may be incapacitated to do so.

     Well these are my beliefs, and I cannot wait to share my other ideas with you. College will enrich my life, and I hope to entertain, assist, and educate you through my experiences.