To the class of 2018...If that doesn't make you feel old, I don't know what will!

How weird is it to think that, in just two years, we will be big sisters helping the new freshmen class navigate the strange waters of Converse? I can't wait until then (or rather I can. I have no idea what I'm doing still!) so here is my little spill that I would give to my potential little sisters:

Good morning! I hope everyone's been getting plenty of sleep and eating well! No? Well, guys, the first thing I want to tell you is this: get plenty of rest, even if it means taking a nap or missing a late night party. Your mind can't function if you're out every night of the week cultivating your social life. It's good to have some nights where you are out and about, but save those for the weekend after you've done your homework and you can handle losing several hours of sleep without serious repercussions.

Also, make sure you are eating well! Pizza is yummy and soda is bubbly and sweet, but they are not good for your energy level or your body in general. Be sure to eat a colorful plate full of veggies and if you must have snacks in your dorm, try to buy apples, trail mix, and other good for you snacks that will keep your energy up, especially as music students who have long days. Eating healthy will keep you from gaining the freshmen fifteen and will keep you from falling behind due to a lack of energy.

Aside from being healthy in a physical way, be sure that you find a least a couple of friends that you can flock to when you need someone there. These friends that you make in college are going to be the friends that are there for life, and now is the time to start searching for them. They can really help you in times of need and can be there for you when you need someone to go to the party with or to figure out the workings of Gee with. But sometimes friends can give you a bit too much of help and advice.

If you need someone to just listen and you don't want everyone knowing about something maybe that is personal, you can always go to the Wellness Center on campus. There is no shame in counseling, and as music students who often lose their sanity in the crazy hours that we spend in the practice rooms, counseling can be extremely beneficial in keeping your emotional health stable.

Time management is something that music majors often become masters of as we figure out recital attendance, clubs, practicing, going to class, and other activities of the like. Be sure that you don't say yes to absolutely everything in the beginning as far as clubs and organizations go, and be sure to prioritize your stuff. Try to get your convocations and recital attendance done early so that come November/December, you aren't cramming and stressing because the recitals you attended only amount to 13 when you needed 20. It is so much better to be done with these sorts of things so that you can enjoy the other activities on campus, such as Zumba, movie night, and many more.

Converse is a great school to be at and I am so excited that you are here. There is a great purpose for you here and a special place for each of you. If you need anything, everyone that is above you, to include students, faculty, and staff, are here to reach out to YOU and help YOU become a vital part of the Converse sisterhood. Again, we are super excited that you chose Converse, and if you need anything, we are here for you. Thanks guys!