Freshman Representin'

The year is quickly coming to an end, and with much sadness, I realize that I’m not going to be a freshman anymore. High school won’t just be around the corner anymore . . .rather, it will become a more and more distant memory.

But I have had so much fun as a freshman! Though I only spent one semester here at Tulane, it has been enough to mark me as an individual and set me on a path for the next three years. Being involved as a freshman, I learned, is one of the most important ways to start off.

I will admit, however, that most of my friends look at my busy schedule and tell me I’m crazy. But as a freshman, jumping in and trying new things is the only way you’ll find out what you love to do. And as you become an upperclassmen, it is these activities that will distinguish you. I was lucky; I came here to Tulane and made the most of every opportunity I had. There are still so many opportunities I would love to take, but at this point, taking on any more responsibility would really be insanity! For example, several weeks ago I got an email about being a representative on the student health board. I had to physically restrain myself from jumping into that too. Between the presidency of Wall, exec board of the India Association of Tulane University, and pledging for Delta Xi Nu Multicultural Sorority Inc, I’m booked. Occasionally, I try to branch out, but usually this schedule keeps me busy every night of the week minus Fridays and Saturdays.

At University of Texas at Austin last semester, I found myself surrounded by familiar faces, a great environment, and a lot of fun. Having come to school late due to the hurricane, I was perfectly happy making that my excuse for not getting involved. I was fortunate, because I had a chance to start all over at Tulane. But not everybody gets that chance, and too many freshman are happy coasting and partying before they realize that they’re missing out on a lot of amazing adventures with different organizations and groups on campus.

So for all you incoming freshman–the opportunities are definitely there. Just make sure you take them! You don’t have to be super involved . . .all you have to do is dabble in a few things and look for what really interests you. You might even be surprised! College is a whole different venue from high school, and the term “involved” takes on a completely different meaning. It’s not just the stereotypical group of Student Council officers and National Honor Society leaders that gets involved here . . . . its everybody!

The adventures I’ve had this semester with my organizations have been great . . .and they are chances that were solely available to freshman. I’ve got my track for the next three years, and I owe it all to the people who encouraged me and welcomed me . . . . .IATU, the management of Wall Residential College, my sorority sisters . . . .and of course, the Admissions Office at Tulane that invited me to become a blogger!

Thanks guys! I owe you one!

Me, Simran, Karthik, and Rita- all on the IATU Executive Board 2006

The three freshman representatives on the IATU Board- Me, Karthik, and Rita!