Dear incoming freshman class of Miami University,

First off, let me say that you have chosen an amazing school. From aesthetic to genuine friendships, Miami has it all. Our small school vibe allows for constantly meeting new people while running into comfortable friends all while walking to your 10 a.m. class. Oxford, Ohio will never leave you bored, and the people will not disappoint.

Preparing to come to Miami in the fall can be overwhelming. Pondering how to decorate your dorm room and what you will do on your first night are probably among the top concerns on your mind. But I must say that you should spend as much time as you can this summer with your hometown friends and family.

There will be times in your freshman year when you will miss going to your favorite restaurant with your family or seeing late night movies with friends. Be sure to regularly FaceTime and text the people from home who matter to you so that those relationships do not begin to fade; stay up to date on what’s happening in their lives as much as you share what’s going on in yours.

Another big concept that’s probably killing you with curiosity is the food. Miami’s dining ranges depending on location, but you can always find something to avoid starving. However, the food uptown rocks. Places like Quarter Barrel and Bodega can be the highlight of your week, so you definitely have to try all of them. So don’t ruin your appetite and make sure to budget for these kinds of weekly meals!

Now for the big one: Greek life.

Greek life is a perfect fit for some people, and for others, it is merely something that is in the movies. Regardless of whether you decide to join a sorority or fraternity, you will find people that share your interests and that matter to you. So whether you are wearing Greek letters on a shirt or not, you will find organizations and people to surround yourself with.

All in all, Miami is such a magical place that you are about to experience. It makes me so sad to think that I am halfway done with my time here; I wish I could go back in time to be a freshman with all of you. You are about to begin the most exciting, self-learning and important chapter of your life. There is no other experience like college, so appreciate everything it has to offer. And it is okay if your experience is not all smiles and sunshine; that is normal, especially when adjusting at the beginning.

I hope you have such an amazing time at Miami, and I will see you all in the fall!