As a freshman, I so desperately wanted to be a part of an organization that would take me in and be authentic. I wanted to serve people. Though a member of church-affiliated organizations, I wanted a group of people out and about on campus. After searching for weeks, I stumbled upon Union Board, Louisiana Tech students' source for campus entertainment. I applied, interviewed, and became part of the family. There are a few things I have learned while being connected to an amazing organization that has a heart for Tech and her students.

1. Care for the student body

Through my four quarters on Union Board, I can truly attest to this organization being student body centered. Long meetings, hundreds of ideas, and strict budgeting are a few of the things that go into putting a smile on students' faces. We don't get handed a big check after events, but being able to serve the students is our greatest award.

2. Barry Morales

Unlike any other organization adviser, Barry Morales has shown truly "father-ship" to Union Board. He supports us, laughs with us, gets aggravated with us, but at the end of the day, he's the glue to it all. The love and care he has shown cannot be imitated or replaced.

3. Diversity Is welcomed

Besides the minority centered organizations on campus, Union Board, to me, is definitely the most diverse and accepting. They allow everyone to take on leadership roles, have a voice, and feel loved. There is not only equality but acceptance and celebration of everyone.

4. Hardest working organization

Before every concert, Tech the Halls, Spring Fling, or movie night that is attended, there are Union Board members running around hours before preparing everything to ensure student's enjoyment. There have been days where we didn't sleep and nights where we didn't return to our beds until 4 a.m., but we work hard and love doing it.

5. A true family

As mentioned in the Bible, there is a reason for everything. Union Board took me in and gave me a place on the Louisiana Tech campus as a strong student. Because of this family, I have learned what it feels like to be loved and supported. Want to meet Lecrae? U.B. was there to make that happen. Writing for the Tech Talk? U.B. was picking up every copy that printed. Running for Miss Tech? U.B. was there to hold my gown. I cannot thank this family enough and can only my pray my heart is big enough to return the love.

If you are a student wanting to get plugged into a family on campus, I suggest joining these amazing people who serve and love year-round, unconditionally.