Fair Catawba (my Catawba),
While our relationship has only just begun, I am exhilarated to begin this new chapter with you. As with all good relationships, honesty is key here, so I will just come out and say it: you were not my first choice, but boy am I glad that I chose you. I came into the whole college searching process with a firm belief that I would end up at a large state school, but God had other plans for me. Between incredible scholarship offers, a beautiful campus and the opportunity to become part of a family, I ultimately chose to make you my Catawba. You have already allowed me opportunities to meet incredible people on different occasions, such as Preview Day and on my Freshman Retreat. You have already shown me what student leaders look like through the incredible ALPHAS that have already helped make this transition easier. You have shown me that a well-kept, green, luscious lawn is symbolic for much more. It shows that if you care enough to maintain the grounds, then you definitely care about your students. You have shown me already that even though we may be small, I will most definitely find my niche and for that, I cannot wait. You have shown me the value of a hand-written card from tour guides. You have shown me that no matter what I thought I wanted in a school, you are what I needed. I needed a place to run to; a place where everyone knows my name; a place that I can call home. I have found that in you, Catawba. I cannot wait to cheer you on at games this fall and to weep over the 20-page papers that I will write in your library because even through the bad, you are still my place, and for that I am so very grateful.
So, to the school that at this time last year was just a blip on my radar, thank you for enveloping me into your community. Thank you for loving me and showing me the beauty of a close-knit community. Thank you for being the school that my father and grandmother attended before me, thus being the reason that I ever toured in the first place. Thank you for being my home before I have even moved in. I am over-the-moon excited to see how the next four years unfold.
Thank you for being my Catawba.
Love always (xo),
Nora