A sophomore... really? When did that happen?

My freshman year of college has officially ended.... dang. I honestly cannot believe how quickly it has flown by. Yesterday afternoon I came "home" for the summer, against all of my inward desires. Yes, it will be nice to have a break from school work and to see high school friends again. But honestly, I would so much rather be back at Butler than here in New Pal.

Waking up on Tuesday morning and packing all of my belongings was kind of a surreal feeling. I knew I was going to have to leave in a few short hours, but I think I was still in a state of denial. It didn't really hit me until I got in my car to drive back. My best friend Jenni had made me a CD full of songs representing our freshman year. And as soon as the first song began to play, I started crying. It took my every effort to not stop the car, park it, and refuse to leave. Now, you may think I'm just being overdramatic, and maybe I am. But you've got to understand... I wasn't just driving away from campus for the summer... I was driving away from my friends, from my memories, from my life.

I wish I could explain to you exactly what Butler means to me. People often ask me what is so great about life at BU, but I feel like nothing I could possibly say would give complete justification. It's simply one of those things you have to experience for yourself. Honestly, I feel bad for people who attend other universities and have no idea what I am talking about. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure some are having the times of their lives as well, but I for one couldn't imagine going anywhere but BU. They call it the "Butler Bubble" because we almost live in a little world of our own. Everyone uses this phrase sarcastically - but it really does hold some truth. Students at BU are honestly and sincerely enthusiastic about this school. There are so many opportunities to get involved and so many great people to meet and befriend... gosh, I really can't even begin to explain. I don't know how to make these words mean more than just empty sayings to you.... but trust me, once you're here, you get it. You get why no one ever wants to leave and why saying goodbye to Butler, even for just a few months, is a huge deal. Going "home" sucks.... so bad. For us, Butler is home.

To the incoming freshmen, I am so very jealous of you all at this moment. You are about to delve into one of the greatest and most profound transitions of your life. But don't let this scare you in the least... be excited. If given the opportunity, I would re-wind to the beginning of my freshman year without a moment's hesitation. Coming to Butler last fall, I already knew it was the school for me - I was absolutely certain. But truthfully, I had no idea just how right I was. The experiences I've had this past year have been extraordinary; I feel like I've grown so much as a person in such a short span of time. And I know that Butler has played a huge role in this transformation. So freshmen, get ready. A year from now you will know exactly what I am talking about... but until then, you'll just have to sit back and enjoy the ride.

I want to end this blog with some words of wisdom for those of you about to begin college. Some advice is Butler-specific, some is more about life in general. Either way, take it in... I wish I would have known some of this before entering my freshman year:

- Have fun during Welcome Week. And don't be scared! It's a time for meeting many of the people you will be seeing much of in your next four years at Butler, so get to know them!
- Try new things. How are you supposed to grow if you don't get out there and see what the world has to offer?
- Make new friends. High school friends are great, but if you're not open to meeting new people, you're missing out on the college experience.
- Read the summer book. To be honest, I didn't, but I really wish I would have. The discussions would have meant so much more!
- Talk to upperclassmen. We aren't scary, I promise! And we would love to get to know you.
- Hang out with your unit. Keep your doors open and mingle! I've made so many memories with the girls from 2E, and had a great time living there all year long.
- Study, study, study. Yes, college is hard. But it's manageable (and rewarding!) if you make the effort.
- Take a day to just sit out in Holcomb Gardens. It's beautiful and serene... and a great place to get away from the world to just clear your mind!
- Don't be stupid, but have some FUN!
- Go greek. Or at least consider it! Greek life at Butler is so unique, it's really an amazing opportunity. If you find out it's not for you, that's great. But if you realize that it is, you'll be so glad you took the time to explore it.
- Don't be afraid of growing up. It's a good thing. On the other hand, don't be in a rush to grow up too fast. Take the time to find yourself and enjoy each and every moment.
- Skip class... every once in a while. Let's face it, sometimes living is more important than studying. I'm not telling you to not care about your school work, but college is about much more than just getting an education.
- Go swimming in star fountain. Trust me, just do it.
- Be optimistic. There is always a brighter side... find it. Live for it.
- Eat dessert at Atherton. It's great, I swear!
- Talk to your professors outside of class. Most of them are actually really cool.
- Just be yourself. People are going to love you for who you are, and fitting in just happens naturally.

- Lastly, and most importantly: Believe when people tell you that college will be over in the blink of an eye. You must live for every moment in order to make the most of your college experience. Good luck with everything... and start getting excited! I am absolutely thrilled for all of you, and I hope to meet many of you in August!