By the time this is published I'll be at OWL (Orientation Weekend Leader) training. Just a year ago, I was scrambling to get things packed to go to my college orientation. I was nervous, I was scared, and I was putting it off more than anything. I didn't want to move away from my home, my family, my dog. I didn't want to lose what was familiar to me.

I got to college and met my roommates. Thankfully, there were no unsolvable issues. We went to events together, we ate together, we talked, no problem. My orientation group, however, didn't do much talking. This did not help the nerves I was feeling throughout orientation, however, my OWLs kept their energy high and didn't give up on getting us to talk. College orientation seems scary, but it's not.

I was afraid to ask questions, but quickly realized that asking questions was okay. My OWLs were awesome and I wouldn't have wanted it to be any different. In fact, I would love to thank my OWLs for all they did for me, not only during orientation but also throughout the year. Thank you for going above and beyond and helping me out when I got stuck on something. Shoutout to Ron and Josh, y'all were a hoot.

Next, my peer mentor was there to help too. She answered any questions I had, talked my class through any concerns with registering for class, and made it clear that she was there to help whenever necessary. Alongside the peer mentor, my freshman year advisor was there to answer any questions and help in whatever way possible.

I can't forget my RA in this. We didn't start off on a great note, however I wouldn't have wanted anyone else to be my RA. I won't go into detail, because I hit most of what I would say in an article published not too long ago, titled A Special Thanks To My a First Year RA. I couldn't ask for a better friend to have by my side.

This week, as I prepare to be an orientation leader, I can only hope to have the impact that you all did to me. I can't thank any of you enough for the advice and the help that you offered me throughout the year. Thank you for inspiring me to do more, and be better.

Sincerely,

the shy kid who's not as shy anymore