Welcome back, Hornets! And to all the new students— welcome to the University of Lynchburg. You might be arriving with hometown friends or stepping onto campus knowing no one, but one thing holds true regardless: this is a fresh start.
As a transfer student, I am someone who has experienced the first week phenomenon before, twice. Even though one goes through the formalities of move-in, class scheduling, and getting to know where their classes are, there’s something refreshing about starting from scratch in a new environment. It is intimidating and exhilarating at the same time.
I’ve learned as I’ve navigated college life that you need to get out there! Embrace the experience! Yes, cliche. But let me tell you, there is nothing worse than living with the fact that you played it safe when you didn’t have to. There are so many opportunities on campus: clubs, events, intramurals, study groups, leadership opportunities, and none of those are going to come and find you at your dorm room door. You have to take that first step.
At first, joining something might feel awkward. You might show up feeling like everyone already knows each other, or you might feel like an outsider. This is entirely normal. Something else that is true, however, is that everyone else is feeling the same way, even if they don’t show it.
Trying something new, whether it’s saying hi to someone in class, auditioning for a play, applying for a campus job, or just walking into an unfamiliar club meeting, is never a waste of time. It is all part of your college experience, at worst, you’ll learn something about yourself. At best, you’ll gain a new friend, a new passion, or a memory you wouldn’t have made otherwise.
To this year’s incoming class: you don’t need to have it all figured out. Most of us don’t. But what you can do is show up, be curious, and take small risks that might open big doors. You’re at a university full of people who want to connect with you, make use of your professors, your advisors, and your classmates, give them a chance to get to know you.
Go to the involvement fair. Introduce yourself to your CA. Ask the person next to you in class if they want to grab lunch. Try out for that thing you’re not sure you’re good enough for. Go cheer at a game, even if you don’t know the rules. These are the moments that make college more than just a degree.
Here’s to the start of something new, and to not waiting until your last semester to wonder, Did I make the most of my University of Lynchburg experience?
Welcome to the University of Lynchburg. You belong here, so make it home.