"Every day I’m here is confirmation that I made the right decision."

I have so much to say I don’t even know where to begin. I’m just so excited for you. There are countless opportunities to seize, memories to make, and people to meet here at Georgetown. You’re gonna love it.

“I know this may sound cheesy, but every day I’m here is confirmation that I made the right decision. I truly believe I am where I need to be, and I hope you feel the same way about becoming a Hoya too.”

Bayley W.

Now, that is not to say navigating freshman year was smooth sailing through and through–I’ve experienced my fair share of feeling hopeless and doubting myself. But those sorts of challenges come with any drastic life transition, and they are part of the college experience no matter where you attend. The more important thing is to learn and grow from them.

Over the course of the next year of your life, you are going to discover so much about yourself. You will get a better grasp on what motivates you, what you’re passionate about, and what kinds of people you should surround yourself with. Embrace it. A multitude of experiences lie ahead of you. You’ll suffer through late, long nights studying, buying endless red eyes from the midnight mug on lau 2. But you’ll also lose your voice from screaming so loud in the student section supporting Georgetown basketball. You’ll get annoyed by the rat presence on campus, especially when they scurry around at night. But one look at the majestic Healy Hall on a clear day will remind you how lucky you are to call this beautiful campus home.

There are probably so many thoughts running through your head as you pack up and get ready to move in to DC. Will I get along with my roommate? Will I be able to balance academic and social life? Will I find the right group of friends? You are attending Georgetown for a reason: you are ready for this challenge. Even in times of stress or doubt, never forget that. At Georgetown, you will be surrounded by some of the best professors, and most driven peers a university can offer. Seize every opportunity that comes your way, reach out to alumni, attend guest speaker series, and love every moment.

My first year at Georgetown seemed to fly by in an instant. Looking back, I have so much to be grateful for. Looking forward, I have so much to be excited for. My hometown is in upstate NY, but my home is right here on the hilltop. I could not be happier about that.

I hope you find as much love for this place as I have.

All my best,
Bayley W.

Title: “Every day I’m here is confirmation that I made the right decision.”