Carlehr Swanson

This semester I learned a lot about myself. This being my first time away from home for an extended amount of time and only turning a few white shirts gray, I think I did pretty well. Most importantly, when a teacher says study, you should, and gallivanting around the city of Fairfax at all hours of the night isn’t conducive to success. I didn’t know what to do with myself. (My mom threatened to call the RA) HOW SWAY? HOW? He doesn’t care what I do ha-ha! One of my favorite Whitney Houston songs seemed most appropriate as the title because it describes this semester perfectly. The way my semester went is not alright, but it’s okay… Instead of focusing on the L’s I took, here are 10 likes about college!!!

1. Black Mason: Before coming here, I asked a series of people the golden question, “Are there black people there”? I’m equipped to thrive amongst diversity, however, everyone wants to be surrounded by their “people”, at least at some point. There’s not many of us, so we all gravitate to each other. I’ve found that the upperclassmen are willing to help, and be great mentors. Especially Vanessa, I love you, girl!!! (She took me to IHOP and offered to take me to church ha-ha) Don’t get caught up in all the black events, you must study!
2. My roommate: People don’t think we were put together by random selection. I knew she was different when I read her fun facts and it said she loved watching Empire. I immediately went OKAYYYYY, in my head, at least. After a few awkward weeks, we started going on lunch dates, the mixing, and mingling of friends, and ultimately the loss of our “different” suitemate from the backwoods. She kept saying, “She wasn’t use to diversity”. You picked a college that thrives on diversity!! What diversity aren’t you use to??? Help her Lawd. Katie loves a good step show or two, my grandma’s sweet potato pie, a certain Kappa, and late night episodes of Mary Jane. Need I say more? We’re a match made in heaven! Seriously, I was blessed.
3. My friend group: In college, I’ve met many people, but it is extremely hard to find people just like me. That don’t party or drink! My friend group….. Well, they come close! Ha-ha, They are truly a special group of girls that share the same morals and principles. If I could only make them come to church with me more often. I love you Cheetah Girls! (I’m Raven)
4. UChurch: UChurch is the campus’s church. I was very..um..well. I wasn’t sure what kind of church it was. I didn’t know any of the songs, and the first time I went I was absolutely ALONE! I learned this semester church isn’t about the catchy songs, Miss. Johnson that gives out hard candy or even a building. Church dwells inside you. If you truly want to worship, you’ll find a way. The pastor is also a retired football player with great stories, too bad I don’t know about sports, though.
5. Chorale: Chorale is the University’s choir. It’s required that I am a part of an ensemble for my major. At first, I thought I would hate the style of music. However, I receive a thrill from singing something so complicated and “fancy” “smancy”, or simple classical ha-ha! The people are really friendly, and the teacher makes everyone comfortable very fast. The first week of school, we were all required to come to her house for a barbecue. Yes, the whole choir was in her house. They had me outside playing in the rain with my Brazilian. (see. bundles)
6. Mason Cable News: This is the school’s news program. They accept students in related and non-related majors. However, ya girl is the only non-major. This program allows me to continue to sharpen my skills and maybe eventually decide to double major/minor in Journalism. This program is where I have met so many people; not only within the program but being a field reporter at big school events. Just call me the Oprah of GMU. (Not really, maybe Gayle at this point)
7. Dining Options: It’s possible for there to be too much of a good thing, but at the beginning of the semester I was in love. There were just so many options. I could eat any time I wanted to. Every time I failed a theory quiz, to Southside I went. Can’t forget all those ice cream cones I devoured. Those late night trips to Pilot House are the best or Ike’s if it’s a Monday. From Panda to Panera!!! The food is good!
8. My residence Hall: I would tell you where I live, so this makes more sense. However, in the past random “people” have knocked on my door. I really shouldn’t have my real name on my Instagram account, especially since it’s on my door. That’s not creepy at all, right? My RA is really nice. He always stops by and we have a full conversation in the doorway. The other residents on my hall don’t complain too much about the constant singing and piano playing, except the girl beside me that’s always banging on the wall. (talk about ratchet) Everyone knows me in my hall. Mainly, because I’m always dancing/singing in the hallway etc. This became difficult during exam week; we were supposed to have 24-hour quiet hours.
9. My Progress: In the beginning of the semester I discovered I was very behind musically. Anyhow, I continued to practice…A LOT. At the end of the semester, I can truly say I made a lot of progress, especially since I had so much to correct with technique. I could have easily switched instruments at the beginning, and I still might ha-ha. However, I feel accomplished making it to the end, and doing very well in my piano jury.
10. Corey: Last but not least, Corey! I could go on and on, but I have to protect my “hardcore” rep. Seriously, it’s rare that you find a boy that has similar beliefs, values, and goals as you do; someone that gets mad when you miss Bible study or tells you your dress is a tad too short. Go to church, Jesus will meet you there with a man! Liking a few Instagram photos doesn’t hurt either.