Hey Baylor freshmen-

For most of you, it’s your second first-day-of-school and only a few days into the “I don’t live with my parents anymore” realization, you’ve got the world on a string; so much so that you’re probably not looking for advice…you got heaps of that in May and June when you were, like, so young and in high school. But as someone who has been there and lived that, I think I still have a few things on you. Here’s my advice for living up and loving college.

-Realize that Baylor is unique. From little things like the gorgeous campus, professors inviting you into their homes for dinner, Dr Pepper Hour and slime caps to the fact that God is worshiped openly across campus – and even more, that the university often leads it – is rare. Incredibly so. Embrace this place, because the rest of the world will not be the same.

-Find any way possible to be a part of SING and Pigskin. Or if really seriously are not interested, think about it a little more. Then, if you’re still not into it, give me your name and ID number so I can sneak on stage in your place.

-Remember that right now, everyone is in the same place. You’re all looking for friends to eat with, hang out with, and get to know. Don’t be afraid to walk down  the hall and knock on someone’s door or say hi to a stranger. You never know what role that person may come to play in your life.

-Don’t let Baylor become an idol. Yes, it is wonderful and it’s slightly awesome how the entire Baylor world is encapsulated into a single bubble, but there’s a city around you that needs you too. I wish I had served it better while I was in Waco.

-Take a look around. You are surrounded by some people who are good, deeply so. Some of them may walk through life with your for just this semester, this year, or four years. However, there are probably a few who if you allow them to, will stick with you for the rest of your life. You are being blessed. Right now.

-Look into Greek life if it interests you, but don’t feel like it will absolutely make or break your time in college. It probably won’t.

-Start studying now instead of the night before your first exam. Set good habits now. With that said, don’t tie yourself to school – go and do. Explore Baylor. Check out Waco. Drive to Austin for midnight pancakes at Kerby Lane. Just go. Live. You can sleep during Christmas break.

-If you have the opportunity, look into studying abroad. It will change you and you’ll be so glad it did.

– Make God a priority and get serious about finding a church to go to now. Don’t hop around for months, which by the way, will turn into semesters. Find a church and then get in a small group. I waited too long to try a small group and then, in my junior year, it didn’t fit my schedule and habits. Start now.

-Take note: breakfast burritos at Lolita’s, gut pack at Vitek’s, pancakes at Cafe Cappuccino, cowboy coffees at Common Grounds, cupcakes at What About Cupcakes. You are welcome.

Have the time of your life and love the stage of your life as hard and as deeply as you can!

Love,
Caitlin