It’s the Friday before classes are officially back and new students have flooded the campus.

Frantic with their parents, they carry heavy belongings into the rooms they’ll be living in for the next two semesters. For some, it’s the first time they’ll ever meet their roommates and make their first friends.

New student orientation leaders have been training all week to help navigate the flock of students coming to campus. Staff like Kevin Eggleston and Jenifer Sigado have been preparing for months for the arrival of these students.

As I stand on the sidewalk after a long day at work a group of new students passes. Their conversation involves how big the rooms in the residence halls are and asking each other how to connect the internet. I realize how quickly these moments pass us by and how we forget to appreciate the little things.

Whenever I was a freshman I didn’t appreciate the value of this weekend. We get to experience the campus for the first time, meet people, and for most students get your first taste of freedom. Whether it was events like Playfair or going through the information sessions I realized that I took it for granted.

It doesn’t seem significant whenever it’s happening but the first weekend you get here marks the start of your college career. Before the late night study sessions and papers that need to be written, you are introduced to your peers. Some new students meet their best friends, some students make their first friends. As I watched them speak, talk and work together throughout the weekend I couldn’t help but feel the nostalgia.

That weekend was whenever I met some of my truest friends with whom I could have ever hoped for, and from speaking with other students I know it was the same experience for them. From upperclassmen to my new fellow peers, the classes are starting and for you so is a new chapter. This chapter holds friendships, internships, good grades, bad grades, Spuds, deadlines, and a new found responsibility.

Your classes will not be easy and cannot be ignored. However, do not let these years be solely filled with books. Go out and take on our campus with all of its clubs, organizations, and activities. Leave for class a half an hour early and explore the campus, get lost, ask for directions.

Get a new experience, learn something out of your comfort zone, and most importantly treasure your time here. College is one of the most unique experiences you’ll ever have. With your only responsibility is to learn why not try?