Yesterday I got home after two very long days of orientation. Prior to actually being there I was honestly dreading it. I did not know anyone who was going to be there and I was worried I would not make any friends. However, after attending orientation I see I did not have to worry one bit. I met a lot of wonderful people and I learned about this amazing and crazy place I am lucky to be a part of.
1. The Carolina community is endlessly welcoming.
Before attending the Admitted Student Day, I was unsure about whether or not I wanted to attend Carolina. I had gone to NC State's Admitted Student Day and did not feel super welcomed, and I was honestly expecting that from UNC as well. I knew I was wrong the second I approached the table of overzealous, blue-clad students directing students to their seats in the auditorium. The girl who helped me was warm and helpful and made me feel happy to be there. I only got more of that warm welcome at orientation. Not only were the orientation leaders friendly and helpful, but every staff member as well. My orientation leader especially made the experience better. She was really nice, funny, and a lot of fun, making me less anxious about the stresses of class registration and meeting such a plethora of people. I know I can contact any of the people I met if I have any questions or troubles, and I cannot wait to experience more of UNC's welcoming atmosphere in the fall.
2. At UNC you have to take so many general education requirements.
A lot of people moan and groan about all of the required general education classes at UNC, but I am actually very excited about them. A lot of the universities that others from my class are attending do not require their students to take foreign language and I feel do not have as much of a broad range of general education requirements. Although the more rigorous requirements of UNC demand more work, they also allow every student the opportunity to explore subjects they might really enjoy outside of their major. The general education requirements also seem to make Carolina students more well-rounded and prepared for their future. I am looking forward to taking classes my first year in subjects I enjoy that I have never gotten to take classes in before.
3. There are numerous ways get involved in what you love, in both academics and student-led clubs.
One of the main points constantly reiterated by the professors and staff members at orientation is to do what you love. They do not want their students to get stuck in a major they do not really enjoy just because it may be easier to stay in it. To encourage students to get involved in activities and subjects they adore many presentations and information booths highlighted how easy it is to do what you enjoy doing. Such a passion for students to do what they love made me very appreciative of UNC. So many adults are locked in jobs they do not truly enjoy, and UNC is helping to avoid that by their encouragement in students.
4. UNC is dedicated to the service of helping others.
Until orientation I did not know that service is a part of the Carolina mission statement. In an alignment with this part of the statement, we all participated in a service project where we packaged food for the hungry. Hearing stories from my friends about their orientation experiences it became evident to me that this is unique to Carolina. It seemed odd at the time that we were doing that at orientation, but by the end of it I was very glad I had the chance to participate. In doing the activity I learned that helping others is an integral part of the UNC community, and that it can be a very fun experience. I am appreciative that I get to attend a university so dedicated to improving the world by helping others.
5. Carolina is a huge community full of so many diverse identities.
Another orientation activity I found to be unique to Carolina was the discussion small groups had about diversity and identity. I learned that diversity is also part of the UNC mission statement and I had a meaningful discussion about what makes up my identity and how other people identify themselves. This, and looking at all of the heads craned towards speakers in the auditorium, made me realize how diverse the UNC community is. Not only in race, sex, sexuality, and views, but in interests and culture. I am excited to learn more about the numerous diverse identities of UNC in the fall and to have more awesome discussions.
Reflecting back on orientation I have come to realize that I am going to be apart of a truly great school. I am beyond grateful to further myself in my classes and activities in such a friendly environment. I look forward to becoming more involved in service and to meet many new different people. I now feel I can truly say: Go heels!
