My first week of college started with arguably the best time of my life: New Maroon Camp. If you had asked me at the beginning of camp what I had hoped to get out of it I would have said to move in early and to know my way around campus better. These were both things I got, but I also go so much more than that.

What I instead gained was a sense of community here at Mississippi State and met people I otherwise would not have met. I met the girl living across the hall from me and we probably would not have connected so soon had it not been for New Maroon Camp! I met tons of people on my floor and my first best friend here at Mississippi State.

It seems like wherever I am walking on campus, I find someone I know. Having familiar faces is truly the best! Being at a big school as well as being an out of state student, one of my biggest fears was not being able to meet new people.

Though New Maroon Camp, I have met people from everywhere both near and far. Some of them even ended up being in my classes for this fall semester.

So thank you New Maroon Camp for helping me in so many ways. You gave me a sense of direction both literally with helping me find my way around campus and figuratively by allowing me to figure out how I fit on campus and what I hope to get involved in. You also really helped me to really put myself out there and be open with people.

Thank you for the best friendships and the best memories over five days that I wish could last a lifetime and for putting me in the best pod group. Ptolemy 11&12 forever!!