In fall 2017, I transferred to a new university after my freshman year at Millersville University. This particular university was significantly closer to my hometown and enrolled in about three-quarters of my high school graduating class. I was apprehensive, hesitant, and just plain nervous about being back home. But I was determined to get involved on campus and figure out where I fit in, and who I fit in with.

Fast forward to mid-fall semester 2017 as I was waiting to go into my Intro to Spanish class. This boy in my class was talking about how he was an orientation leader, and I began to jokingly call him a Shippensburg University cheerleader who was overly excited about what Ship has to offer, and the amazing opportunities, and blah blah blah. Aside from the teasing, he encouraged me to apply. Once again, here I was feeling hesitant and questioning if this would be something I wanted to do. I so desperately wanted to make friends and get involved, so I decided to give it a shot.

Let me blunt about this; becoming an orientation leader was one of the best decisions I have made throughout my entire college career. Now being a senior, and getting mentally prepared that graduation is quickly approaching, I know that I will never lose the friendships that were built, the memories of laughing constantly, and finally having the self-confidence to cheer obnoxiously loud at 8:00 A.M. and walk around campus in a giant, red hawk costume (Big Red if you will).

Thanks to New Student Orientation, I have learned how to work with people who don't exactly match my personality type. I have learned to trust people, especially when you're forced to climb a human ladder during team exercises in the middle of the woods. I have learned to accept that mistakes happen and that they don't define you or your character. But most of all, I learned that when you take risks, the outcome can bring you some of the best people you will ever meet.

I have learned that friendships can be made from running around Walmart wearing dinosaur heads, buying snacks, and looking at all the different types of bandages. I have also learned that friendships can start by sitting on a bunk bed together in a cabin and trying to whisper and laugh without waking everyone up from their naps.

Thanks to New Student Orientation, I met two of my best friends who I know will have my back whether I am in a bright red polo, or just facing the hard cards that life tends to deal with. Thanks to New Student Orientation, I know what I am capable of, and I know that nothing is wrong with pushing yourself.

Also, thank you to the boy in my Spanish class who convinced me to apply to become an orientation leader. He has become one of my best friends, biggest support systems, and my loving boyfriend of almost two years.

If you find yourself as a first-year college student and trying to figure out a way to get involved and make friends, consider the orientation team. Because that is truly what it is, a team. A team filled with driven college students, a team of future friends, and a team who is willing to help you find you. Even though I am not super close with everyone I was on orientation with, I always find myself walking across campus being greeted with friendly smiles and hugs from past and present leaders.

So, "Hey, O-team!", thank you for everything.