As I start my second year on campus, I'm reminded of everything I learned from last year. There were mistakes and successes, long nights and early mornings. All I can think now, looking back on my first year away from home, is that I never could have survived alone. I was blessed enough to find a second family at Methodist University who have supported me as I continue to find myself.
From the moment I joined Methodist University, I was able to build friendships with my New Student Orientation Leaders, Chris and Kaitlynn. They watched over us as we became accustomed to the layout of our campus. It is because of the two of them that I have been involved in and made so many memories in the Student Activities Committee for over a year now. In fact, they are the sole reason that I have so many friends now. In SAC, I met my future best friend and twin sister, Taiya, along with my future sisters, Atlantis and Sharon.
Once I started spending more time with these girls, I met the rest of the ladies of Beta Sigma Phi. Lauren, Talia, Sam, and Andy all welcomed me with open arms even before I considered pledging for their sorority. However, once I decided to go through the recruitment process for Beta Sigma Phi, I was introduced to Ms. Aly McKenna, the Coordinator of Greek Life, and later Professor Ramos, the Assistant Director of Study Abroad, who would become our adviser.
Outside of my new band of sisters, I gained new friends in the various activities I picked up around campus. When I started to feel comfortable at MU, I began to play pool in the Berns Student Center. It started as a quiet, solitary game for myself but I didn't realize how soon that all would change. I began to watch the same students play over and over again, trying to pick up on the different styles in which they played and the various techniques they would use. I noticed that Charles only let Shaw use his personal pool cue and I began to expect wisecracks from Lee throughout every game he played. The next thing I knew, I was being asked to play a few games with Keke or David. Between shots, I would talk to them and because of that, I can say I know some of the funniest and down to earth people on campus. Today, I'd be surprised if I didn't recognize a single player at the tables whenever I go through Berns.
Looking back on last year, I'm so excited to see what the future has in store for me. I am entering the fall semester holding three executive board positions spanning from my sorority to the College Republicans and now the newly added, Cyber Forensics Club. I hope that I can expand from these opportunities and create more memories and lasting friendships this year.
I could have never gotten to where I am now without my support group, and I am so grateful to know such a diverse group people other than who I've previously mentioned.
