When I first came to CMU, I fell in love. I hadn't even toured the campus yet, but I already knew it was the place for me. Hearing my tour guide talk about how much he loved the campus showed how passionate he was for CMU and that made me think that I could really love it here.
Going into my freshman year, I was scared and didn't really know what to do with myself. What if I got lost on campus? What if I didn't make any friends? What if school is just too hard? But soon, I found so many reasons to love being a Chip, to love wearing maroon and gold, and to love the flying C.
My very first experience here at CMU was Leadership Safari. Here, I was able to come out of my comfort zone and make new friends in a short few days. I was able to get the layout of the campus before anyone was here and get a look at what college would be like. This year, I was able to return to safari as a guide, where I was able to watch my participants grow together and become friends. This is such a unique experience for students that come to CMU and one that I will always pride myself for being a part of such an impactful program.
The campus here at CMU is something worth talking about. Those of us who go to CMU get the privilege of a big school with the small town feel. The campus is big enough to take a nice long walk and to feel like there are an endless number of places to go, but it is also small enough to get from one side of the campus to the other in 10 minutes (or less, if you have long legs, unlike me). There is always something going on that is free, or pretty cheap, to attend on campus. There are endless numbers of movie showings, game nights, and celebrations that are constantly going on. So take advantage of them!
With that being said, football games are the epitome of being a true Chip. First, the games are FREE with your student ID, so why not take advantage of this and go watch our Chippewas tear it up on the field. Dress in your favorite maroon and gold attire, grab some friends, and head over to the stadium to support the best football team ever.
One of the best experiences I've gotten from being at CMU is being involved in Greek life. Here at CMU, Greek Life is welcoming an always willing to lend a helping hand. I have found my home away from home in my chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha. The best part about the Greek community here at CMU is that we are all friends throughout all the chapters. My best friend is in a completely different sorority than I am, but I am friends with her sisters and she is friends with mine. We have the power to make a difference, and we are able to do so every year.
Being able to show my spirit wherever I go is something that will never get old to me. From being in my hometown to across the country, it is always almost guaranteed that I will have "Fire up Chip!" yelled at me if I'm sporting my CMU gear, and let's be honest, I usually am. The fact that CMU pride can spread to all areas of the country is so awesome, and makes me so proud to be a Chip.
Being a Chippewa isn't something you just do, it's something you can feel as well. I would never want to be anything else than the Chip I am. Fire up Chips!
