Once I decided I was going to attend FSU, I was immediately filled with excitement and anticipation for football season. The cool fall weather, dressing up in spirited clothes, and rooting for my team was such an enticing concept. And then, the COVID-19 pandemic came upon us, and it was up in the air if football would even be able to exist this year. The announcement finally came that we would be able to attend games, but it would look extremely different from what it normally would.

With allowing students to attend football games, there had to be a lot of rules put into place in order to keep us safe. The most notable rule is that now, to attend a home game, students must provide a negative COVID test result that was administered on campus within a week of the game. Along with this, the amount of student tickets available is very limited, there are "sit here" stickers along all of the benches, and masks must be worn at all times.

I must admit, going into the experience I was slightly nervous. I knew that I and my friends would follow all regulations, but it is impossible to control the actions of those around you. I was worried about the heat if people would actually be social distancing and a plethora of other COVID-related concerns. I decided that I should try it out anyway, and was not disappointed. There was security enforcing the wearing of masks, and enforcing social distancing on the bleachers. It is obvious that those running the game are doing all that they can in order to let them function as close to normal as possible while staying safe.

This football game was clearly not the typical freshman football experience I had planned on. Under normal circumstances, I would have been packed in with hundreds of other students, jumping and yelling, sweating because of all the other people pressed around me. This was not that experience, but that does not negate the fun that I had. I was able to scream for FSU and have a great time showing my Florida State school spirit, while still remaining as safe and healthy as possible.

After having this football experience, I have learned a few tips for next time. Make sure to bring a hat. I became aware that with the mask covering half of my face, and my forehead being in the sun, I ran the risk of getting a horrible mask tan line when not wearing a mask. I learned that it is even more necessary than normal to ensure you are staying hydrated. Along with that, I recommend that if you are to go, you go with a group of a few people you enjoy talking to. It is not as high-energy of an experience, so you will want good company.

Overall, despite the regulations, if you are a football fan, or if you are just looking for that freshman experience, I fully recommend attending the games. It may not be the experience you planned on having, but as a new student who was looking forward to college football, I am still very grateful that I have the ability to go.