Hitting that acceptance button and sending in that first deposit, I knew I had officially signed myself to Christopher Newport University. Ever since I was little I had gone to the same schools with the same people, so everyone ventured together from elementary school to middle and high school. During my senior year, the teachers posted a bulletin board that had little hot air balloons with various colleges. Only 10 students from my entire high school were going to CNU. I knew I was going on my own adventure, and even though I was floating away from everything I’d ever known, I was ready for the journey.
When you first enter campus, there is no blueprint for what’s going to happen or who you’re going to meet. Going to a different university than all my friends was the best thing I could have done. I had to get as involved as possible to meet people, and through my experiences I made some of my most cherished friendships. But, not all friendships are the ones we most expect. I am very fortunate to have so many wonderful friends on my rowing team, in my sorority and from my residence hall. However, some of my closest friends and role models actually work for the University. One of the first people to impact my CNU experience was the special assistant to the president. Even though she is constantly busy, she always makes time for me. We met my freshman year when I was forming the rowing club. She has been my number one supporter from the beginning and not a day goes by at this university that I don’t feel her love or support. Being able to have a role model and a close friend at this university has meant the world to me. I know that if I had gone anywhere else I would not have this wonderful relationship.
I have also been fortunate enough to get to know a CNU alum, who was also in my sorority but graduated years before me. She works in the Center for Career Planning, and throughout my journey of applying for jobs, she has been my number one supporter. We met just this year, but her constant support has brought our relationship so close. I feel comfortable dropping by her office anytime and sitting with her to talk. One of the ways CNU has changed me into a better person is through my job. I have learned so much from working in the Office of Communications and Public Relations, but most importantly, I have loved working with the people in the office. I never would have thought I could come to work and have genuine conversations with my bosses and feel as though I have gained true friendships and role models. When I first hit that acceptance button four years ago, I would never have believed I would be such close friends with the president’s assistant and CNU faculty. Being able to have these close friendships has made me into a better person. I am able to understand the University in a whole different way because of the opportunities I have had and the relationships I’ve made. Being a Captain has allowed me to grow into the person I always wanted to be. I may not have known anyone before I came to CNU but now, as a senior, I’ll graduate with lifelong bonds and mentors. I will forever be a proud Captain.
