For all those who are worried about the upcoming year here at UCSD: don't worry. You've probably heard of the nickname "UC Socially Dead" tossed around in threads and comments online about what life is like here, but my experience has taught me that this place, like most, is what you make of it.

When I moved to UCSD last September for my first year as a Triton, I had no idea what I was getting into. I'd seen the daunting nickname on Facebook posts and other college-social sites online, so I expected a relatively boring University experience. I came here as a junior transfer student; I had my priorities set on academics so partying wasn't a necessity. I unpacked my clothes and laptop in my 6th floor ocean-view apartment on campus and was pleasantly surprised by the amount of vibrant energy flowing around me, this felt like home and I was happy. 

That night, The Village West Tower, where I lived, was crawling with activity and night life, the returning students were excited to see each other and apartments on every floor were packed with kids partying. My mind was blown. Every night during "Week Zero" (the move-in week at UCSD) ended with shenanigans like I had never experienced. 

My third day in San Diego, the University Recreation Department threw a beach party (Meet the Beach) for the entire campus. When I say that they threw it for the whole campus, I mean there were literally hundreds of girls in bikinis and guys ready to party hard. The school gives out tons of free stuff and free food, there's games...not to mention the best beach in the state, all I can think is...this, is home now.

I met a couple of my closest friends that week in The Village and at Meet the Beach; some guys I still to this day kick-it with regularly. UCSD is not dead socially at all. Life here is sweet, and while you're attending this beautiful university you will meet some of the coolest people you'll ever know.

Once school started, I heard about this thing called "rush", I was so naive. It was at the school gym "Rimac" where I met the guy who told me about fraternity life and how to pursue becoming a member. After a couple times hanging out with him I decided "what the hell, I'll give it a try" I mean you only live once. I became a member of Pi Kappa Alpha this year, and I must say that going Greek is the best decision I've ever made. 

The rest of the year was history, Sun-god Festival  and the fraternity's Vegas formal both happened in May, the whole month was a long (but way too short) party. I couldn't have planned my time here at UCSD better than it has happened, but thats the point I want to make. While you're here, do you, make as much out of the social life as you want to. Life is awesome here, it moves fast and it is precious, it is what you make it. If you don't want it to be "UC Socially Dead" than don't let it be.