Welcome back to Clemson, Tigers!
The start of a new school year, especially in college, is always exciting: new classes and teachers, fun school supplies, the return to a normal academic routine and finally seeing college friends again after summer break.
Whether you’re a freshman or transfer student stepping onto campus for one of the first times, a sophomore or junior returning as an experienced Tiger or a senior who’s bittersweetly preparing for the Clemson “lasts,” Tigertown has so much to offer.
As a junior coming back for her third year, I couldn’t be more excited to have the experience and knowledge of the past two years, while still having another two full years ahead of me.
Especially in these first few months, there are always events to go to and activities to get involved with. Obviously, we’re all looking forward to football season right around the corner, but also Tiger Prowl, various club and organization functions, Greek life recruitment, the First Friday parade and so much more.
The first week of school — Syllabus “Sylly” Week — is always a great opportunity to hang out with everyone you didn’t see over the summer and do all the Clemson things while school hasn’t become rigorous quite yet: coffee at All In, ice cream at Spill The Beans, swimming at Lake Hartwell and walks on the Dikes.
To the freshmen and transfer students: we’re so happy to welcome you to the Clemson family! While I’m sure you’re at least a little overwhelmed as you move into your dorms and prepare for classes, you truly have nothing to worry about. My advice to you is to get as involved as you possibly can!
Even if some involvements don’t work out in the long run, Clemson has a seemingly endless number of clubs and organizations to join — including The Tiger — and you’re pretty much guaranteed to find your people as long as you put yourself out there.
To the sophomores and juniors: welcome back! By now, you have a year or two under your belt. Now is the time to stay focused on your academics and to continue making connections that will help further your career after graduation. Researching internships, looking for leadership positions in the organizations you’re involved with and truly getting out of your comfort zone are great places to start.
To the seniors: Somehow, the time has passed fast enough for this to be your final undergraduate year at Clemson. Try not to stress too much about life after graduation, but soak it all in and make those lasting memories that you’ll remember forever. We are already so proud of all of you!
I can already tell that this year has so many incredible things in store for all of us. Again, welcome back home, and go Tigers!
Kat Pugh is a junior English major from Clayton, California. Kat can be reached at [email protected].
