Going off to college can be a very scary and overwhelming thing. You're no longer a child, but not yet an adult, you still answer to your parents, but you have to make decisions on your own, and you have so much freedom, yet so much responsibility all at once. You question nearly everything, from your major to your friends, and your classes to your future, and at times you miss your comfort zone. Thankfully, that’s where Troy University comes in. Though I’ve only been at Troy for a semester, I’m already in love with it, and I’m blessed to call it my temporary home for many, many reasons.

The campus is absolutely beautiful.

Troy is not a huge campus, but that’s okay. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. From the fountain on the quad to the trees that line the sidewalk leading to Hawkins Hall, I fall in love with something new every day. Troy’s campus feels just like its own little world, and I wouldn't want it any other way.

Our international program is incredible.

During my short time at Troy, I’ve had the honor of meeting students from China, India, France, and beyond. It’s an amazing feeling to be part of a university that unifies so many different cultures and brings light to the fact that, despite our cultural differences, we are all one.

At Troy, you’re more than just a face or a number.

Sometimes Troy gets picked on for not being a huge university. And while we may not be the biggest university, that doesn’t deplete our value. At Troy, you’re not just a face in the crowd, and you’re not just a name on a roster. You see someone you know almost everywhere you go, and that makes me feel like I'm right at home. Because of Troy's small town feel, your teachers and advisors get to know you and care about you on a personal level. They dedicate their own time to ensuring that you succeed and I’d be lost without them.

School spirit is through the roof.

So we’re not a SEC school, and we don’t have countless national championships, but that doesn't matter. Our school spirit is incredible, and our student body and fans are indescribable. Whether it’s getting involved for homecoming week or cheering at games, our fans are a whole different level of enthusiastic, which we prove time and time again. (Especially this past weekend at South.)

Troy has its hidden gems.

Anyone who assumes that Troy is a boring town just doesn’t know where to go and what to do. There are plenty of adventures to be had from dirt roads to Thrill Hill to Hell’s Gates and visiting Jesus. Plus our downtown is adorable and has tons of locally owned shops and restaurants.

I’ve gained a second family and a home away from home.

Troy has introduced me to friends I know I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. It has given me the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds, different beliefs, different cultures, and even different countries. From the girls in my sorority to my fellow Freshman Forum members, and my classmates to my dorm neighbors, I’m thankful for the people I’ve built relationships with and the ones I’ve yet to meet. Leaving home was scary, don’t get me wrong. I miss my family, my friends, my hometown, and most importantly, my cats, but if I had to start over somewhere new, I’m glad that place was Troy.