Walking through the “gate” for the first time.
WALKING THROUGH THE “GATE” FOR THE FIRST TIME.
Follow us for more reflections on the traditions that shaped our journeys.
Do you remember that first step? The air thick with possibility, a nervous flutter in your stomach, and the undeniable sense of walking through a monumental threshold. For many of us, it wasn’t just entering a campus; it was stepping into a legacy, a community, and an entirely new chapter of life. That initial moment, passing through a symbolic or actual gate, marked the beginning of something truly unforgettable.
Orientation and those first few weeks were a whirlwind, weren't they? From communal meals that felt both awkward and exhilarating, to late-night talks that solidified new friendships, and quirky traditions that made you scratch your head or burst out laughing. Whether it was a campus-wide scavenger hunt, a unique first-year ceremony, or simply navigating the labyrinthine paths, these initial rituals forged a bond unlike any other. They were the crucible where we began to understand what it truly meant to be part of this extraordinary place.
These early traditions, the ones we embraced wholeheartedly or perhaps quietly endured, shaped our perception of what was to come. They weren't just events; they were the very fabric of our introduction, laying the groundwork for countless memories. We’d love to hear about your first “gate” moment. What traditions from your initial days here still resonate? What made you feel like you truly belonged, or perhaps, what challenged you most? Share your stories below.