dear old golden rule days (two new posts)

And now, 21 years later, I'm about to have yet another first day of school! I went to the orientation day at BC last week. It was inspiring and optimistic, this day, and I left feeling pretty ready for the new challenge. I still had to pepper my friend (a recent BC grad...grad) with the questions I didn't dare ask at the orientation, but I did feel like I had a fairly good grip on things when I was done that day.
I sat through the pleasantries; welcome speeches, introductions of the staff and faculty, the pomp and excitement about this brand-new school (it's a combination of Weston Jesuit and BC's IREPM). Then they grouped us up and let us meet with a seasoned student, to give us tips and tricks about the grad student experience, I guess. After another round of welcomes and introductions, we met in small groups with our advisors. I'm excited about mine, she's been really helpful so far, and seems to give me credit for being a grown-up professional-type person.
After all that, I went to the main campus to pick up my parking pass ($230!!!) and ID, and bought my books ($115!). I watched the tour groups snake around the beautiful campus and thought how overwhelming this place must be for a first-year undergrad upon first arrival. So much going on, so much to take care of, and all that at an age where you still care so much about looking cool.
School starts Tuesday and I have all my notebooks and sharp pencils ready. I'll let you know as soon as I start to feel smarter!