As the first semester of freshman year comes to an ending. We sit back and reflect on the many memories that were made. We reflect on who we were before we came to the University of Alabama and look at the new, more mature people we are now. Alabama is not only a school, but a building block in our lives, where we grow, make new friends and figure out who we are as people, and who we want to become. It has been a fast but exciting roller coaster of events that has made up this first semester.

Going into the freshman year we had high expectations of what college was going to. For some many expectations were met and some were not. From move-in day, frantic freshman flocking to move in. Lining up with their cars filled with family members and a lot of boxes and suitcases. At first, the beginning was very nerve racking for everyone. If you took part in sorority rush, were there early for sports or even moved in when everyone else did, it was a different experience. Not knowing many people and moving into a new atmosphere. To be honest it was frightening. Having your parents close by or even far away it was very uneasy. Slowly once classes started the workload started to pile up. Going from living at home with your parents to completely being an independent young adult and, doing everything for yourself. Learning to do laundry, finding a schedule to do everything was hard. Adapting to your life, school and even maybe new state was interesting, to say the least.

As the weeks went on, it started becoming easier and feeling more like home. Going out to the fraternities, meeting new people, going to date parties and much more, was a true experience. Nothing can compare to game days at Alabama. From dressing up for a home game to going to the quad with your friends as you get prepared to cheer on the tide. Nothing is better than shaking your shaker in the air, after Jalen Hurts scores a touchdown. As you scream the Alabama Fight Song, next to your friends hoping that moment never ends. Looking around the stadium, smiling in the awe being grateful that you go to the best school.

First semester was filled with many laughs, cries and a lot of memorable experiences that no one would want to trade. Going to the band parties on Friday’s standing with your group of friends was never a dull moment. Or the many date parties or open house parties/swaps where every Thursday felt like Halloween. Your first semester as a freshman is where you meet new friends, experience a whole new life.

The weeks turned into months but flew by very fast. Nothing will ever be able to replace the engraved memories that were made during those first months. Winter break will feel like a long time till everyone returns in January to the beloved Alabama. Friends will be missed, but the love for the tide will forever be with us as we depart to our home states.