I have had many experiences at Miami that I will never forget, but the one that stands out the most is residence life. Being a sophomore, I am embarking on my second year of on-campus living. As a freshman, I had no idea what to expect. I was terrified at the thought of having to wear shoes in the shower, needing to share a few sinks with 80 other girls, and having a roommate in a tinier room than I had imagined. However, after one year of experiencing dorm life, I have realized that there is so much more to this experience than what meets the eye.

Last year I lived in Tappan Hall and although I had a rough start like many freshman, this building quickly became my home and everyone in it grew to be my family. I had no idea what to expect for freshman year, but now I know the importance of getting to know those around you and being open to anyone and everyone that comes your way. If I had not done this I would have missed out on some of the best friendships I have ever had.

When living with hundreds of other girls in a dorm, it is hard not to make close friends. You are with the same people in your building morning, noon, and night. These people see you at your best, your worst, and everything in between. This atmosphere creates bonds between people in a completely different way. From crying together, to laughing together, to complaining together, to studying together, people you live with see it all. They know your quirks and your pet peeves, as well as what makes you the happiest. 

There are a lot of perks that come with making good friends in your corridor. Last year my friends and I exchanged multiple clothing items and countless amounts of food. It was not only fun raiding each other’s closets and taking pretty much whatever we pleased, but also helping each other get ready and doing each other’s makeup. Some of my fondest memories are running up and down my corridor hall and begging people to help me pick out an outfit or seeing what food people had to share. Late night cookie bonding sessions are a must when living in a dorm. I have discovered that there is not a better way to bond with people you live with than over food. 

This year I have the privilege of living in the Alpha Omicron Pi corridor with my sorority sisters. I have only heard positive things about living in the sorority corridor, and I can already tell it is going to be a great year. I am looking forward to late night bonding over food, getting ready for a night uptown, and growing closer to my sisters this year. I know my experience this year will be incredible, and I can’t wait to see what is in store for my sisters and me this year.