I've always been fascinated by that Brad Paisley song, "Letter to Me." He talks about all the things he would tell himself in high school if he had the chance. I loved that idea. I used to wish for a letter from 10-years-from-now-me, giving me all the answers I needed.
To be fair, I still want that sometimes when it comes to career decisions and dating; wouldn't that be nice? To already know exactly where you're going to end up, and just have to take the steps to get there?
Of course, that's not really how it works. Thank goodness, really, because it would also be quite stressful wondering what would happen if you made some small missteps. Besides, the journey is nearly always the most important, fun, and exciting part.
All of that being said, I figured an Odyssey article from someone older than you is about the closest a person can ever get to a letter from the future. So...
Dear Class of 2021,
You've made me feel a tiny bit of nostalgia this week. Coming back as a sophomore is wonderful - you have friends and clubs and things to do. You hit the ground running, and you aren't scared to start classes or stressed about fitting in. Been there, done that, am I right?
You also don't get to experience new things in the same way. Watching all of you stare wide-eyed at the genuine wonder that is FallFest, or seeing you sing the alma mater for the first time, it made me think about the fact that this week, Week of Welcome, is the one where Carolina started to feel like home.
All I'm trying to say is this: enjoy it. There really is something a little bit magical about everything being new. For instance, you're still picking a favorite table in Davis (mine was in the part that's closed for construction right now, so I guess I get to do that again, too).
You're still crafting your favorite bagel order (bet you didn't know that we couldn't use plus swipes until 2:00 my freshman year). You're still discovering YoPo, Al's, and Bandido's. You still haven't rushed Franklin Street.
This is a big year! It's scary sometimes and it's a huge change. But a year from now, when you're watching the Class of 2022, I have no doubt you'll be having the same feelings of nostalgia that I am.
You'll also laugh with your friends at all the things that make those people, only a year removed from you, "such freshmen" (sorry guys, but it's true). Most importantly, you'll be so excited and happy to share all the Carolina traditions you've come to love with each incoming student.
Hope it's a GDTBATH (but really, it always is),
Class of 2020
It can never be said enough... GTHD