One of my favorite parts of freshman year was Orientation. Yes, it was long and exhausting and sometimes even boring, but overall it was an amazing experience. I loved my Orientation Advisors, I learned a lot of important information, and I met some great people. When it came time during the spring semester to apply to be an OA, I Immediately filled out an application and prayed that I would get it. When I found out I was going to be an OA I was ecstatic and could not wait to get my orientees and begin training. After officially finishing my job this morning (although as I told my kids every day I'm their OA for life) I can truly say it was one of the most rewarding experiences and I wish I could do it all over again, maybe just this time with a little more sleep.
Being an OA meant I got to come back to school about 10 days before classes even started for training and actual orientation. While at first I was dreading the end of summer and training, those first few days with the freshmen were so much fun. I met people I would have otherwise never interacted with and learned so many valuable facts about my school. Plus, we got to compete in a Lip Sync and my group got second place!
Meeting my orientees for the first time was the most terrifying and exhilarating thing. A million thoughts were racing through my head; would they like me? What if I ruined their college experience forever? What if they're cooler than me? Well, my children are definitely cooler than me and it's pretty fitting that they call me mom as I honestly try to embarrass them in public as much as possible. And don't worry guys, that part won't stop just because Orientation is over. I cannot wait to jump on you guys when I see you in the library, at Dhall, or at a party. I seriously love you guys.
My children are the funniest, loudest, craziest, and nicest group of people. They have genuinely made such an impact on my life and I love being able to answer questions they have, even though they literally never ask me anything and I have to beg them to speak.
So group 21, although our time has come to an end, know I will always be here for you. Day or night, rain or shine, tomorrow or in 10 years, I'm only a text or call away. I hope you had an amazing week and an amazing college experience. Thanks for being the best!!!
