As many people know, I have chosen to attend the University of Alabama this fall for college. Some people don't see what the big hype is about Bama, besides the football of course. Many people have told me that Alabama is just where a bunch of stupid rednecks go, but obviously I know better. Here's just a few reasons why I chose to be a part of the Crimson Tide family.
Campus
The University of Alabama is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful college campuses in America, and it's not hard to see why. The buildings on campus are beautiful and all very unique. There are a few buildings that survived the burning of campus during the war and they are always a highlight to see and in big interest to history buffs. The newer buildings (relatively speaking) are beautifully designed with brick exterior. The campus is also filled with plenty of beautiful green space for studying, relaxing and taking artsy pics for Instagram or VSCO. And of course, there is no greater sight to see than Bryant Denny Stadium.
Housing
Housing at UA is unlike any college I visited on my college touring process. Students have the option of traditional living (one room, two people, communal bathrooms), as well as suite style dorms, which come in doubles or quads where each person gets their own room, shares a bathroom with one other person, and a living space and kitchenette. When I first saw a typical suite style dorm at UA, I thought they were exclusively for upperclassmen or graduate students because of how beautiful and spacious they were. When I found out that freshmen had the opportunity to live in suite style dorms, I knew that was what I wanted to do. Having my own personal space is exactly what I need, while still sharing space with roommates and learning to live independently.
Academics
Alabama has hundreds of majors and minors to choose from, which was very encouraging to me since at the time of applying I hadn't really decided what I wanted to do yet. There's always the option to change your major and it's more than likely they'll have what you want. Some of Alabama's highest ranked majors include law, nursing, education, biology and pre-med. There are tons of opportunities for internships and hands on learning in the area, and even on campus. Bama also has tons of study abroad opportunities that I hope to take advantage of. I think it's beautiful when a school wants to send students on these amazing adventures to further their education and deepen their love of learning and life.
Campus life
It's obvious to me that there could never be a dull day at Bama. There are hundreds of student organizations, sports teams, clubs and other activities, as well as the abundance of Greek life on campus. I'm so excited that I'll get to be a part of the Million Dollar Band, UA's marching band, and get to go to the football games and cheer on my favorite team while continuing my love of marching band. Aside from student organizations, there are so many other fun things to do on campus. Alabama has an amazing rec center (not that I'll ever be using that) with tons of workout equipment, machines, pools, tracks and sports courts. There's also a movie theatre on campus, many beautiful libraries, walking/running paths and so many options for food. The possibilities for getting involved on campus are endless.
Football
Okay, so I think all UA students would be lying if they said football wasn't a part of their decision, or at least a perk to going to UA. Game day at Alabama is unlike anything you'll ever experience. Fans come in from all over the country to pack Bryant Denny Stadium to capacity, and many others fill the space around the stadium with some serious tailgating. Game day traditions are always a blast too. Some of my personal favorites are when the Million Dollar Band plays and when the athletes come off the buses and walk into the stadium. My favorite part about Alabama football (besides all the winning and national championship titles) is that the whole Crimson Tide community is also a family. We win together, we lose together and we keep fighting together. No matter what happens this upcoming season, Bama fans from around the world will continue to wear their crimson and white and shout "Roll Tide" whenever they get the chance.
Living in the south
I'm from a small town in south-central Pennsylvania, where snow piles up in the winter and consistent rain and dreariness is the norm. I've known since I was little that I wanted to go south for college, even if it was just because of the weather. A girl needs some sunshine in her life! I've also always loved the way of life in the south. Things seem simpler and more happy, and the people are so kind. In the north, everyone seems to always be in a rush and are focused on themselves, and I've always felt like I need to just slow down and be kind to others. I know it'll be a big adjustment moving from the north to the south, but I'm ready to slip on my Chaco's and get going!
I could go on forever about why I love Alabama, and I'm sure some of my future articles will discuss this a bit more once I move in, but I know I made the right choice by going to Alabama to continue my education and I can't wait to get started on this next chapter of my life.
