Tomorrow the Class of 2013 arrives on Davidson's campus. It is an exceptionally joyful and exciting experience, individually and as a family, to embark on this new adventure. Mom and Dad will struggle with the separation, the distance, the unknown. Son or daughter will be facing new challenges, new relationships, and new opportunities without their best friends by their side. All will be searching for a new self identity. Yet, for the whole family, it is incredibly exciting to be part of a new community.
The friendships to be found at Davidson will last a lifetime. Your friends will fly across the country to be at your side years after graduation. They may become your spouse, your campaign manager, your best friend, your biographer, your congressman.
Reach out to the people around you. Ask that faculty member the question you forgot in class. Have lunch with strangers. Become great friends with your floor and hall mates. Find connections with your team mates beyond the field, court, or arena. Get to know the staff around campus. These relationships shall change you, challenge you, lead you to growth as a person.
This is an exciting place driven by you and the people surrounding you. Open yourself to this opportunity. Be joyful. Be engaged.
It is the people that make this a special place that you will carry in your heart, mind and soul the rest of your life.
Welcome Class of 2013!