My favorite Elon Tradition is .... Because...

My favorite Elon Tradition is Freshman Convocation. In my first official day here, I was a nervous wreck. Sitting under the mask, surrounded by people I didn't know at all was intimidating to say the least, but when President Book came out on stage and officially welcomed our class, and our parents and families to the Elon Community, all of my fears went away. Thinking about those who have sat under the oaks before me is a feeling I cannot describe, but one I will cherish forever.

I chose Elon because...

I chose Elon because I wanted to be part of an environment where students get to form close, personal relationships with faculty who believe in hands-on experiential learning; where I can gain the knowledge, vision, and courage to take action, study abroad, study hard and venture on. Most Importantly, I chose Elon because of the sense of community and tradition I felt when touring the campus and I knew Elon would challenge me to my fullest potential, preparing me for no matter what stage might await.

My most memorable Elon experience?

My most memorable experience here at Elon so far was the day after my parents left from move-in weekend, and the orientation seminars had come to a close. I was already beginning to feel very homesick. I hadn't had a big friend group or anything near to that yet and felt like I had just made the worst decision of my life. Maybe I don't belong here, maybe I'm not ready for college. It was that same day, walking back to my dorm room, with a to-go box from the dining hall, I noticed this group of people playing volleyball outside my building. The ball flew out in front of me, so I tossed it back and the girl who caught it, who I'd soon come to find out is named Katie, said "hey we could use another person, want to play?" Although it seems so simple, it was that moment, playing volleyball, a sport I'm not very good at, I knew I was in the community everyone had told me about. All my doubts went away, and I was reminded why I came here.

I'm passionate about...

I'm involved with...