To The Girl Who Gets My Freshman Dorm Room,

Welcome to 353! It might be small, and you might be wondering how you'll ever fit your stuff in it, but it'll be home.

Eight years ago I stepped into this room with no clue where my life would take me. This room has seen countless major changes, lots of tears, and many late late nights. This room has set the fire alarm off from forgetting to put water in my easy mac, it shielded me from the world when my grandma died, and it provided a safe space to be myself. As I sit back and think what I went through, I can't imagine what else this room has seen. The gallons of alcohol, boxes of hair dye, dozens of late night pizza and Chinese food boxes.

To the girl about to walk into my old room- embrace it. Some of your best nights will be spent there with friends, boyfriends, and maybe even family. It's your home now, make it reflect who you are.

To the girl about to unpack into this room- respect it. If you think your room was messy at home, imagine how little it will take to make this small space look like a mess. Take a few minutes each night to tidy up, make your bed in the morning. You never know who may stop by at any point.

To the girl who may be sharing a room for the first time in her life- be civil. Some people walk away with their roommate being their best friend, others do not, and that's okay. Be friendly, set ground rules, respect each other. You don't have to go to dinner with her every night, you don't even have to like her.

To the girl who is about to experience freedom for the first time- be safe. If you're questioning if you can handle one more drink, you probably can't. If you want to go crazy and have no strings attached, protect yourself. Make friends who will look out for you, and make sure you return the favor too. Befriend your Resident Assistant, you never know what you may need from them.

To the girl who is moving into my freshmen dorm room- live, laugh, experiment, and become your own person. Let yourself grow, try something new, but don't lose sight of your standards. Love your room, but don't be afraid to leave it. Keep your door open when you're hanging out, it's the best way to meet new people. I leave to you a room that's near and dear to my heart, and can only hope you love it as much as I did.

Sincerely,

LH 353 Resident

2009 - 2010