After countless hours of studying, volunteering, and submitting applications the wait is finally over. You’re going to Clemson!
Shake off the nerves and replace them with excitement. Thousands of new people, a new town, and a new chapter of your life are ahead of you. Soon you’ll be able to navigate campus like a pro and know all the fastest routes to your classes.
You have so many opportunities in front of you – classes, internships, jobs and extracurricular activites. You’ll go from not knowing anything about college football to following ESPN on Twitter and owning two football jerseys.
Some high school relationships will fade, but the people that remain in your life will be the ones that matter most. You will grow into a more confident, strong and self-aware adult. Your friends will support you, encourage you, and love you. You will find your people here. Don’t forget to thank them for being in your corner every chance you get.
Hug your parents and cherish the holidays spent with them. Send them cards on their birthdays and special events. Call them once and awhile just to check in. Remind them that you’re grateful for all of their sacrifices, love and support. They’re the entire reason you’re here in the first place.
It’s easy to worry about money, or time, or grades in the moment. But looking back you will never regret the $100 you spent to go to the football playoffs or taking the time to go to the lake with a group of your closest friends. Those will be the memories you cherish and hold closely. The sleepless nighters, tough moments, and stressful finals weeks won’t matter. All that will matter is the people you met, the memories you made, and what you did with the tie you had.
There will be times that everything feels like it’s too much and happening too fast – just know that once you’re on the other side you’ll be wishing you hadn’t wished those moments away.
After these four years you won’t be the same person you came to college as, but that’s the beauty of it all. This is your time so go out and do everything that you want to with unwavering drive, confidence, and tenacity. And no matter where you end up don’t forget your roots.
Devin