One of the things I like most about college is that you get not only one, but three first days of school. Every quarter, you get the chance to start fresh, form new habits and try new things. Of course, you can always change things during the quarter or school year, but I just love the feeling of a new beginning, a fresh start.

Maybe I like September because it’s my birthday month, and since the weather in this area is absolutely gorgeous. Warm and sunny during the day with cooler temperatures at night. In more rural areas, I love the smell of damp mulch and dry leaves moistened with rain. It’s also fun to go to the Puyallup Fair (I refuse to accept the name change) and celebrate the unique things that people create to represent themselves. September always means back to school, new starts and new beginnings as well. It means that the inevitable forces of change will be shaping your life into something new, whether you want them to or not.

Today I was one of the volunteers for the UW Dawg Daze Husky Kickoff event. As I stood on the field watching hundreds of new freshmen and transfers fill the turf, I thought about how much I’ve changed since I was in that same place. When I was the younger version of myself, squinting in the September sun, unsure about where I even was on the huge campus.

When I first came here, I was afraid and nervous about being on my own and making good choices. I was overwhelmed by all of the information and opportunities available. If I couldn’t even find my classes, how was I supposed to handle the bigger things in life? I had lived a very sheltered life among people with similar values. Would I compromise my values in the face of challenges? Do I know who I am or just base my self-concept on what others think of me?

This year I will be my third at UW and I am excited. I look forward to continue learning and defining who I am based on what I experience on this campus. At first I was overwhelmed by everything happening at this school, but now I recognize that energy as it’s strength. UW is a microcosm of the world, with diverse people of all cultures and backgrounds interacting in a variety of contexts. Students live, work and learn together in a rich environment. They encourage one another to pursue excellence in all areas of their lives, and for this reason, I am proud to be a Husky. Have a great first day of school!