Roots & Branches

It’s barely three weeks into my sophomore year, and William & Mary students are cooking on all burners. Interest meetings, concerts, showcases, fundraisers—the amount and variety of activity this early in the semester is seriously impressive. Still, in between all the hustle and bustle, I’ve had some time to reflect on what it means to be involved here. Since this is my first post, I figured that reflection was a good way to introduce myself!

This time last year I was a freshman, and I was happy to get to class on time, not leave my laundry in the hall washing machine overnight, and make new friends anywhere and everywhere. With that in mind, it was a productive year. Still, I didn’t get as involved outside of the classroom as I had anticipated. Community service? Political activism? Cultural organizations? Performance groups? I had no idea where to start because I didn’t really know what I valued or liked to do; in a way, I tried to branch out without roots.

Early in my spring semester, then, I decided to make a list. That’s no surprise, as you’ll learn – I love making to-do lists and timelines (and countdowns, especially VH1’s 100 Greatest Songs of the 80s, but that’s an entirely different story). But this list was different. Instead of thinking about what would look good on a resume or sound good in an interview, I tried to think about where and when I was happiest. Toward the end of my spring semester, I was thrilled to put down my first roots with the Peer Advising program through the Office of Academic Advising, and Alma Mater Productions.

Now, I’m a sophomore, and I’m still trying to get to class on time, keep up with my laundry, and make new friends. I also know how to get my roots set and branch out with confidence, and that has made a huge difference. The PA program is mostly over, but my AMP roots are strong, and I am so happy to be part of Women’s Chorus, a talented group of ladies I joined two weeks ago. (If you’re coming to Family Weekend on Friday, we have a concert with the William & Mary Choir, Wind Ensemble, and Orchestra at 8:00 at William & Mary Hall!) This past Sunday, I also put down some roots in the Greek community here with Chi Omega, a social sorority with engaged, smart, driven sisters I’m excited to learn from and get to know better. Of course, I also have another list in the works of other activities to try, or my branches – stay tuned on progress there!

The point is, with all the activity and bustle this time of year, it’s nice to take a moment and just be happy to be here. This momentum bodes so well for the three years ahead, and this is definitely the happiest I’ve been on campus (so far!). I can’t wait to share the rest of my time here – roots and branches and all – with you!