1. My Roommate
Let me tell you about this girl. We didn't go in blind, and I've been talking to her since February, and we even met briefly over the summer. But I never knew how much she would mean to me. She is literally my best friend and I love her so much. She puts up with my crazy and is there for my breakdowns. I got lucky having a roommate that ended up being my best friend (as well as my sorority sister!). We're so cute we even have matching coffee mugs (Roomie goals!). She makes being away from home for so long a little bit more bearable because she's so great. ily a milli, Sami.
2. Plant Hall
This is one of the most beautiful buildings I have ever seen in my life. This building left such an amazing first impression on me when I visited last year that I put my deposit down that day and walked down those stairs confident in my decision to attend UT. I have a class in Plant, and I absolutely love it, granted, it gets a little hot occasionally, but it is an old building, so I'll forgive it. Plant is like a maze, and if you ever go upstairs and to the Science Wing... be prepared for a spooky surreal feeling.
3. The Pool
Palm trees and a pool, what else could you ask for in a school? Stressed out and in need of a little sun and R&R? The pool is one of the best places to go. It's almost always sunny in Tampa, so laying out and tanning is a great option. Or, if it's a hot day and you need to cool down, the pool is the best place to do it. Plus, if you're lucky, you might even make swim practice for the UT Swim Team.
4. Class Size
I graduated from a class of about 84 or 85 students, so I've been used to small class sizes for a while now. When looking for a college, class size was a big factor. The biggest class size I have here is about 20-25 students. I love it because Professors still know my name, and get to every student's question instead of just missing some questions. Students still get the attention and help they need to be successful in classes.
5. Opportunities
Off campus, on campus, EVERYWHERE!! Not only are there job opportunities, but there are volunteer opportunities, internship opportunities, and club opportunities. You will literally never be bored at UT or in Tampa. If you are, it's because all you do is sit in your room. There is so much to do here it's crazy. My planner is filled until the middle of December, and I'm still looking for a free five minutes to squeeze something else in that I want to do.
6. The Grill
It's good for lunch, it's good for dinner, it's good at 1am. Nothing is better than greasy fries and subpar burgers or really good chicken fingers and grilled cheese. The only bad thing? It takes FOREVER for you to get your food.
7. Green Lemon
This is off campus, and this is the first place I ate at when I visited last year. Their food is super good, and I highly recommend a visit. Get some queso for yourself, because you're simply not going to want to share (trust me, I know).
8. Daily Eats
OH MY GOD. Let me tell you about these milkshakes, and the mac n cheese, and the burgers, and the bison, and you know what... just go if you haven't. Soho in general is just fun to go out to with friends.
9. Riverwalk
This is not only good for exercise but it comes with an amazing view. At night, Plant Hall is lit up and one of my favorite things to do is find a bench and sit for a little bit. Every time I do this I am amazed by how beautiful UT is, as well as the city of Tampa. It is always lit up and busy, and I love all that is going on. Riverwalk has one of the most beautiful views at night, as well.
10. Station
Tic Toc Tuesday and Thirsty Thursday. Five minute walk, tops. 'Nuff said.
11. My sorority
Alright, I know that every sorority girl says that their sorority is the best one, but I'm serious about this. The girls of Kappa Alpha Theta are special. This is perhaps my favorite thing about UT. I am so blessed to have the most amazing sisters. They encourage me every day to get more involved on campus, as well as the community. When I'm having a bad day, I know theses girls have my back. If I need a ride to Publix, I know a sister will gladly take me. There are so many amazing opportunities within a sorority, as well in the community. I'm so glad I decided to go through recruitment, and that Theta picked me. I wouldn't have as many amazing friends as I do now, and I wouldn't already be as involved as I am now (and continuing to be)!
