Everything I fell in love with my freshman year at UD
How did I ever survive without Brewed Awakenings?
SATs and ACTs, FAFSA and Common App… applying to colleges is no easy task. All the technical work doesn’t make the decision any easier–where can I picture myself for the next four years of my life? For anyone fresh out of high school, this can be one of the most difficult questions to answer. During my senior year of high school, I gave little thought to the college process. Most of my friends were passionate about their interests or fell in love with a certain school, and I was excited for them. But I was never able to bask in the same enthusiasm the way they had. After applying to about five schools all within three hours of my hometown, I ended up waking up one day in mid-April thinking to myself, “I guess I’ll go to UDel,” which I later learned that no one on campus calls “UDel.”
Not only was I clueless about campus life, but also with what I actually wanted to study. Deciding on a major was an impossibility due to my many interests. During freshman orientation in July, I took baseline courses which would be applicable to a variety of majors. I attended the activity nights and looked into the various clubs and organizations.
Yet, once I learned the ropes as a freshman and made a place from myself, I fell in love with my school. While I’m away for the summer, here’s what I’ll miss:
Club Morris
The library became my refuge and second home during finals week equipped with puzzles and coloring pages. Despite the occasional cry, Club Morris is always a good time and provides a productive space to get work done.
Studying at the ISE Lab
Heading over to the ISE Lab for Einstein’s and spending time outside makes me feel ten times more productive. What is a study session without an iced coffee and a bagel?
Dumplings from The Wandering Chef
Yes, that’s one of the food carts outside of Purnell. It’s hard to resist buying these for lunch after a rough Econ lecture.
Waffles and UDairy ice cream from the D Hall
The self-serve waffle irons in Caesar Rodney allowed for dessert (or breakfast?) to be taken to another level. How could I pass up an opportunity to get Mint and Cookies on the rare occasion CR was serving it?
Ginormous cold brews from Brewed Awakenings on Main Street
Brewed Awakenings is the hidden gem of Main Street. If you’re addicted to caffeine, they’ve got plenty of it.
Going out on random Monday nights
Just when you think you’re in for the night, you’re not.
Nages -night dages.
Land of the free, home of the dage, right? Think again. If UD is good at one thing, it’s being able to dage… in the dark.
FACs – Fridays after class
Easily the best reward after a long week of classes.
The view from the steps of Memorial
After leaving class and heading back out to campus, being greeted with a view of The Green makes you realize how beautiful it really is.
Sunsets from the Delaware Memorial Bridge
Returning to UD is always exciting, but being welcomed back with a beautiful view makes it all the better.
The college search isn’t for everyone, so don’t feel as if you need to be gung-ho about a school. Keep your options open and look into schools that offer a wide variety of majors, activities, and a lively social life to meet new people. You may not come to an immediate decision, but eventually, you will. And if you’re really indecisive… come to UD!