There's something special about your first year of college. The first few weeks are so magical, especially if you're absolutely in love with your school. Longwood University gave me an unforgettable first year and as a freshman, I felt welcomed and accepted. Here are 5 things every Longwood University freshman experience:
1. New Lancer Days.
New Lancer Days are orientation days for incoming freshman at Longwood. While these four days can be a hit or a miss for some people, I personally really enjoyed them. I got to meet other freshmen in my major and if it wasn't for these days, I probably would have never gotten the chance to get closer to one of my best friends. They're hot, long days, but definitely help you gain some knowledge about college life. You also get to know your peer mentor, someone who will probably become your role model by the end of the last day.
2. LSEM.
LSEM is a class all freshmen have to take. You're in class with the same people in your New Lancer Days group, so everyone is familiar. I was lucky enough to have the best LSEM class and the best professor.
The professor was really passionate about LSEM and actually made me want to participate in class. LSEM will teach you SO many things that are valuable to know in college and after. For example, putting together a resume, learning writing skills, and doing community work. Every class is a little different, though. It all depends on your major.
3. Experiencing all of Longwood's traditions.
Longwood has TONS of traditions. As a freshman, these traditions definitely help you feel more like a Lancer when you participate in them. Longwood traditions include Chi Walks, Color Wars, Ghost Stories with Dr. Jordan, getting a Longwood Scarf in August and much more!
4. Living in Curry or Frazer.
I personally very much disliked living in Curry last year. Both Curry and Frazer are freshmen dorms and many upperclassmen would consider these dorms to be a "right of passage" for freshmen. Let's face it, freshmen dorms are loud and messy and there really isn't much you can do about. Luckily, Curry and Frazer are going to be remodeled soon!
5. Construction.
Almost everyone complains about the construction at Longwood at least once. I feel like when I toured Longwood, I was so in love with it, I didn't really notice the construction until I had actually moved it. There are a few new buildings being added to the campus like the new Student Union in the middle of campus and the Student Success Center in front of the library. The good thing about the construction is that it just means Longwood is trying to improve itself!
There are so many moments from my freshman year that I will cherish forever and I hope the class of 2021 finds themselves at home at Longwood!
