May

20

Once a Hawkeye, Always a Hawkeye.

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So this is it. It’s weird to think this is probably the last blog I will ever write as a student blogger for The University of Iowa. I have to say that it’s been an honor, and a pleasure, to share my thoughts, feelings, and experiences with this amazing university.

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As an incoming freshman, I had never even dreamed of blogging. I had never done it myself, but I had always followed other people’s. Then while exploring many of Iowa’s Facebook pages, I came across a post looking for student bloggers. I had no idea what it entailed, or how many people apply, but I decided to go for it. I created a blog, filled out the application, and sent it away. It was completely an impulse decision, and I didn’t think I’d even get it. But now here I am, 4 years later, still writing for the institution I love so much. I’ve loved being able to share my voice as a student. To this day I still don’t really know how many people actually read my blog posts (besides my mom of course…), but either way, it’s been a great outlet for me. It’s almost like my own personal, very public, diary of my college career. I wouldn’t change a thing.

I’ve been putting off writing this blog for some time now. At first I thought I’d have way too many things to say and this post would go on forever….but as I sit here, I struggle to find the right words. Iowa has impacted me in so many ways, I couldn’t possibly think of them all. So I’ll keep it to just a general handful.

Delta Zeta. Coming into college, I knew right off the bat that I wanted to participate in Formal Recruitment. My sister was a Phi Mu at her University, and I also thought it would be a great way to meet people, and create unforgettable bonds. When I went through recruitment, by the end I know Delta Zeta was were I belonged. It is such a unique and diverse blend of personalities, I truly felt like I could be myself with those women. I wouldn’t replace my sorority experience for anything. I’d encourage anyone to go through the recruitment process, even if they’re not completely sure it’s for them. You won’t know unless you try.

The Hawkeye Marching Band. In all honesty, this big, beautiful, sassy band was basically a second sorority for me. All those people truly became my family. Nothing can replace the memories of waking up at 4am, even in the brutal cold, to go rehearse outside in Kinnick Stadium before the game. I could not imagine my college career without the marching band. They were the very first people I ever met at Iowa, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Art Major. I didn’t know what else to call this one, but it’s really just the community of art students throughout the university. Being an art major is definitely not your typical major that you’d think of right away, but it’s something I’ve loved working towards these last 4 years. Art Building West, Studio Arts, those buildings were my home over these years. Countless hours starting, and restarting projects. The successes, the frustrations. Art has been the center of my universe, and I will always be thankful for the outlets that the university has supplied for me while a student.

My Roommates. The last 2 years of my college career, have been spent in a house with 5 roommates right across the street from the East side dorms. We’ve be through highs, and some serious lows, but I’m thankful to have had girls that care about me. Even though sometimes I wanted nothing but out of this sometimes cramped house, I wouldn’t have it any other way. No matter our struggles, we’ve always supported each other.

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So now comes the next chapter of my life. I’m excited, and also terrified, to move halfway across the country to live in Orlando, Florida and to intern in Walt Disney World. I’m so thankful for this opportunity, and I thank The University of Iowa for making me the person that I am today.

My advice to any student at the university is to not be afraid to try new things, and to put yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to jump at new and scary opportunities, but also don’t be afraid to say no. Live for yourself, and work towards your dreams. Iowa is a beautiful place, don’t take if for granted. Four years will go by before you know it. So cherish this place, and the people that surround you. The University of Iowa will only help you become the best version of yourself.

So keeping in the tradition of the Hawkeye Marching Band, we end every football game, win or lose, by singing the Alma Mater. It’s something I will forever hold dear. Once a Hawkeye, Always a Hawkeye.

“Come all alums of Iowa,
And blend your voices true;

Sing praises to our Alma Mater,
As good Hawkeyes do.

Let’s keep within our hearts a fire
To magnify her fame;

Bring credit to these noble halls
Where glory and honor reign.

The day is near when comrades here
Will bid farewell and part;

But each Hawkeye carries on,
They spirit in his heart.

Oh! Iowa, Iowa, we drink a toast to you;
We pledge our everlasting love for dear old Iowa U.

Alma Mater, Iowa.”

So for the final time, Go Hawks. 

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