My memories of GAAP weekend are hazy and fragmented. I have a vague recollection of being circled up with strangers on Healy lawn, encouraged to “bond” through games such as “two-truths and a lie” or being completely unprepared to tackle the steep slopes of the hilltop in uncomfortable flats. I fuzzily remember sitting in Gaston hall, receiving welcoming remarks that concluded by wishing us, “Good luck, and Godspeed” before I was figuratively pushed out of the nest. With those words, I began my journey at Georgetown.
It was to be a trying journey filled with obstacles and experiences that I was in no way equipped to handle. It was to be a journey meant to stretch and push me into a fuller, better version of myself. It was to be a journey that ended all too quickly. As I sit under my covers trying to come to terms with the fact that my freshman year is over, I decided to put together a soundtrack that captures the ups, downs and lessons learned from my first year on the hilltop. Without further ado, Halftime presents the Weekly List: Soundtrack to My Freshman Year
- “Unsteady” by X Ambassadors
Prior to college, I had only been away from home for three weeks. One of the first lessons I learned is to remember your roots. College offers you the unique opportunity to reinvent and redefine yourself. You will be given freedoms and it is up to you, everyday, to make decisions about the person you will become. As you make these choices, it is important to remember who you are and where you come from. Don’t forget to call home or talk to old friends–these are the people that have known and loved you. They are also the people that you will need as you enter into this new and unfamiliar world. For me, this song perfectly portrays this sentiment. When I am a “little unsteady”, it is my friends and family that will have my back.
2. “You’ve Got Something” by The Jungle Giants
Coming to Georgetown, I was surrounded by bright and talented individuals that, seemingly, had it all figured out. Throughout the year, I was faced with challenges that caused me to pause and consider whether or not I was capable of handling the obstacles that Georgetown had presented me. For incoming freshmen, remember that you deserve this. Remember that you have chosen to become a Hoya because you believe in something bigger than yourself. At the end of the day, you are here to impact the world. Simply put, you’ve got something. Dig deep, stay strong, and give it your all.
3. “Lesson Learned” By Alicia Keys
You will make so many mistakes your first year of college and throughout the rest of your life. One of the biggest lessons I learned this year was to not be afraid to ask for help. You attend Georgetown because you are accomplished and deserving. That does not mean that you are perfect. Math tutors are available at St. Mary’s every weekday. There is a panel along the left wall in VCE that you are meant to swipe your GoCard in before you can work the washing machines. The thin slit by the washer is a trap. In both big and small matters, understand that you are not the first person to struggle. Look to your community for support.
4. “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
I had hit the middle of the year and I was beginning to get the hang of things. Looking back, a pearl of wisdom I’ll offer to incoming Hoyas is to be bold. Get involved with clubs and organizations that you had not previously considered. Open yourself up to new experiences and people. Live a little. A hint to my former self, dining trays from O’Donovan’s on the waterfront make fantastic sleds. Sorry, Mom– don’t stop me now, cause I’m having a good time.
5. “Fix my Eyes” by for KING & COUNTRY
“Here’s what I’d do differently: love like I’m not scared, give when it’s not fair, live life for another, take time for a brother.” To me, this song represents the spirit of Georgetown. We are here to step up and give as much of ourselves as we can to this world. We are here to fall in love and stay in love with something we are passionate about. Returning to campus after winter break, this song reminded me of my purpose and motivated me to tackle my second semester.
6. “Shout” by the Isley Brothers
Whenever I listen to this song, I think of nights out. Georgetown can be stressful–it is important to through your hands up and enjoy life. After all, you’re in college, the best four years of your life. Specifically, this song reminds me of Diplomatic Ball when my friends and I were all circled up, heels off, off-beat, dancing. It was one of the best nights of my life.
7. “Laughter Lines” by Bastille
“I’ll see you in the future when we’re older, and we are full of stories to be told, cross my heart and hope to die, I’ll see you with your laughter lines.” Georgetown will offer you moments that no one will be able to take away. Breaking off pieces of the Potomac after Jonas, sleeping on the West Lawn waiting to be addressed by the Pope, standing on the squash courts after winning a national title, these are unique gifts. Remember the smaller moments as well—the first time you entered Brown House, the feeling of an Epi quesadilla at two in the morning, the last seconds of a basketball game. Hang onto the details, cherish the days.
8. “I Was Here” by Beyonce
Time moves quickly. In the blink of an eye, my first college year has passed. In some regards, I made it. I gained a new sense of independence and found a home for myself on the hilltop. With that being said, I still have a long way to go. There’s only one proper way to end a year–with a Beyonce song. Cheers to the dear old blue and grey. Sophomore year, I’m coming for you
