It seems like it was only a few weeks ago when our students were preparing for a new school year at #VState, and freshmen were about to embark on a brand new journey – one like they’ve never experienced before. This new season was filled with fear, excitement, questions, determination, and strength – strength they never knew they had. All students have been there, feeling all of the emotions that come from their first day on campus to the moment they cross the stage and earn their diploma and everything in between. Since day one, it has been a challenging experience that has absolutely been worthwhile.
We asked two freshmen Blazers about their first-year experience at #VState, and this is what they had to say.
Rebecca Bell | Freshman | Class of 2022
Honestly, coming to college was scary. Leaving my parents and the small town I knew two hours behind me was something I had never done before. I had no clue how I would survive on my own, but during my time here at VSU I have developed a love for the school and the city of Valdosta. In the Fall during my first semester, I joined a wonderful Greek organization – Chi Omega. Chi Omega opened doors for me to meet so many amazing people at VSU who have truly changed my life for the better. My sorority has allowed me to surround myself with strong, scholarly women that support me in my toughest moments and celebrate me in all of my victories. By joining Greek life, I have been able to push myself further than I ever thought possible in my school work and in my leadership abilities. Valdosta State has given me a home away from home that isn’t just about school, but also about a network of people from all walks of life trying to better themselves. It has even allowed me to make a difference and impact the Valdosta community in a positive way. I absolutely love Valdosta State University and wouldn’t trade this college for the world! Looking back, one of my greatest accomplishment thus far at VSU has been being nominated by our school for a campus involvement award as well as receiving a 3.4 in my first semester of college!
My advice to incoming freshman would firstly be to study hard so you are able to have fun later and to always put yourself out there because you never know what wonderful people you can meet if you never try.
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Ellie Sparrow | Freshman | Class of 2022
My freshman year experience here at Valdosta State has been something I wouldn’t change for the world. I came here in the Fall ready to finally be on my own, but of course, I was a little scared. That all went away when I was surrounded by all the caring, hardworking people. Your teachers, advisors, and RAs really work hard to make sure you are comfortable and okay here for your first year. I also have my color guard team, which has given me lifelong friends as well. I am so thankful that I was a part of the Blazin’ Brigade Color Guard my freshman year. Being on the guard allowed me to open up as a person and not hide away in my room. I had to go to every football game, not only to cheer on our team to victory but also to perform. This really helped my freshman year experience because I was doing things that not everyone else was necessarily doing. I was lucky enough to travel to Texas see our football team win the 2018 National Championship, which is something I will never forget.
Looking back, I have grown in many ways since starting at VSU this past Fall, but the main takeaway has been learning to live in the moment. Some of these experiences you’ll only get while in college. So, my advice to incoming freshmen would be to learn to let loose and have fun – this is a safe space to be you! You’ll make memories and friends that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. The thing I am most looking forward to next Fall is the football games. I can’t wait to be with my team again, cheering our football team to victory.
