To Bryant University's Class of 2021,

Welcome to the dawg pound! You may not know it yet, but you are in for some of the best times of your life. You are going to be attending a University that will push you past limits you didn't know existed, allow you to meet some of the most interesting and down to earth people you'll be lucky enough to call friends and introduce you to an entirely new world. You're probably a bit nervous to attend your first class and maybe you're unsure if you will make friends. Don't be. Yes, Bryant classes will push you but only in the best way possible. As for making friends? Everything will fall into place, and if you get involved right off the bat it will happen even quicker. Know that you are incredibly lucky and I can guarantee that some of your best memories are awaiting you here on campus. Here are some of the things about Bryant that you might not know coming in, so I'll let you in on a couple secrets.

1. The Squirrels, Skunks, and Muskrat

Let me start off with the squirrels. Yeah, this may sound extremely weird but it is really true - these things are not normal here. This is something that everyone just kind of knows and laughs about. Whether the squirrels are acting like statues and are staring or darting after you one night, we don't really know why they're so odd. The skunks come out in the spring. Those are lovely to run into. Finally, there's the muskrat that lives near the pond. You'll probably run into him once or twice. Also, on a side note, do not ever jump in the pond.

2. The Doors to the AIC

Alright. So, the AIC is an amazing building. It's absolutely stunning, the walls are all glass, and the lighting is perfect. There are also a lot of great places to study, especially for group projects. However, the doors to get in are HEAVY. You really got to put your shoulder into it and tug, otherwise it probably won't budge and you'll begin to think it's a push.

3. The Morning Rush at Dunkin

If you have an early morning class and need your coffee fix make sure you leave time in the morning to go to Dunkin because you will be waiting in a massive line.

4. Nick's

Speaking of lines, there is a meal swipe option at Nick's Place after 8 o'clock every night. If you are going to skip Salmo and eat there for the night don't expect to get your food right away if you don't go a bit early. This line will go out of the building doors some nights.

5. Creating Relationships With Professors

One of the most crucial things you can do on campus is make and maintain meaningful relationships with your professors. They are here to help you with life inside and outside of the classroom.

6. GFOB

GFOB is one of the business core classes you'll be taking as a freshman. It is a lot of work but if you don't procrastinate you'll get it done fine. Choosing a good group is everything, and if your professor chooses for you, you better pray hard that everyone pulls their own weight. Just like the real world, however, you'll learn how to work with others - maybe some you'll like and maybe some you won't. All in all, the experience is very valuable in both circumstances.

7. The Festival of Lights

The Festival of Lights is right around the holidays and is absolutely beautiful. Everyone will get a candle and we all light them at the same time. It's a really nice ceremony and celebration, one that you should definitely be a part of!

8. Follow President Machtley on Twitter

He'll tweet about weather delays/cancellations, the sports games, student life, and pictures of campus. Mr. and Mrs. Machtley are both very genuine people who are involved so much in the campus and student life. We are really proud to have them as people we can all look up to and trust our futures with.

9. The IDEA Program

As a freshman, you'll go through the Bryant IDEA program. You'll learn a lot about yourself through this three-day program like how well you can work with complete strangers, how you problem solve, how you work under pressure, and if you can pitch a product. It is a lot at once, but if you take it for what it is and go in with a positive attitude you'll love it. It is a very valuable experience that no other university will offer in quite the same way.

10. Stay on Campus for the Super Bowl

Honestly, just do it. You can really go home anytime, and this is one of those times you should stay to experience what campus is like!

So on your first couple days here at campus, don't be nervous. Have fun picking out your dorm decorations and don't drive yourself crazy thinking about those what if's. Experience everything in the now and enjoy every second of it.

All the best,

A fellow dawg