People always say that you know when a college is a perfect fit for you when you get on campus and it just feels right. I thought that sounded cliché until I actually stepped foot on Michigan State's campus, and I knew that this was the place I wanted to spend four years of my life. Now that I'm over 75% of the way done with my first year here, I've come to realize that being a Spartan is much more than just our school's mascot; it's a mentality and a way of life.

When I was little, I dreamed of coming to Michigan State and being a Spartan. I was a huge fan of the basketball team and football team, but I sort of thought that that was the extent of the school. Yes, we go to a school that is prided heavily on our successful athletic programs, but anyone who thinks that sports are all that Michigan State has to offer is dead wrong. Fifty thousand students didn't decide to come here just for the fact that we have great sports teams (although that is a huge bonus). We all came for different reasons that are unique to each and every one of us. Despite our distinct backgrounds, one thing unites us for certain: being a Spartan.

Being a Spartan may take on a different meaning to everyone. To me, it means being a part of a community that never gives up and works to overcome every obstacle that comes our way. For every problem that is thrown at us, we work to find a solution. From athletics to the classroom to the social problems that have come to light on Michigan State's campus, all of us students have the goal to learn from our mistakes and do better next time. Our football team turned a 3-9 season in 2016 into a 10-3 season in just one season. Ever since the Larry Nassar scandal, we have had groups of students pushing for change because we don't accept less than what we deserve.

Something that makes Michigan State so special is how it can make a huge campus with a crazy number of students feel small and intimate. There is so much to do here - so many clubs to join, events to attend and places to go. There is always a way to get involved. Whether that be playing on an IM sports team or club sport, being a member of the premedical association, or joining literally any group you can think of, Michigan State has something to offer to everyone. Being a Spartan also means to be a part of a community that is so accepting and open to people. It is one that boasts of diversity.

It may sound cheesy, but being a Spartan is something that I hold near and dear to me. My heart soars when I hear someone chant "Go Green!", and the response is an overwhelming "Go White!", because I know that Michigan State is an amazing community that doesn't give up. I am so proud to say that I am lucky enough to go to Michigan State. Every day I get to live my dreams as reality on the most beautiful campus ever, with amazing, hardworking, passionate and special people. My decision to come to Michigan State for college is hands-down the best one I have ever made.