Social Life

    There are so many things to do at Penn State. I cannot ever imagine being bored or not having something to do! I think one of the hardest things about being a music major is finding the right balance between school work and social events. Not only do music majors have to do their academic work, but they also have to play in ensembles, attend concerts, and of course, practice. This doesn't seem to leave a whole lot of time for relaxation or a social life. However, I think one of the most important parts of college is hanging out with friends and interacting with other people in different settings.
    I have definitely had no lack of making friends. My first friends that I met at Penn State were from the Blue Band. Arriving a week early for band camp was awesome! I made new friends and got a chance to adapt to the campus  before anyone else arrived.  When the other students were moving  into their dorms, I felt like a "professional-freshman" because I already had the hang of things. After the first week of classes, I made friends with many other freshman music education majors. A group of us have become really good friends and like to hang out on the weekends and go to the hub for things like swing dancing and karaoke. We also decided to start a low-key and fun brass quintet next semester.  I also have many friends interested in music because I am a sister in Sigma Alpha Iota. It is really nice to have musical friends that understand my busy schedule, support me, and have been, or are going through the same thing as I am. In addition, I met three of my best friends at college through Cru. They are supportive and understanding friends that have really influenced me in just the short time that I've been at college. It's really cool having friends from different states and backgrounds than I am from. I have friends from numerous places in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and even Michigan. We are all unique, and that's what makes things more fun when we hang out together.
    In the first semester, most of my social time has been with the Blue Band, since that is what would take up the bulk of my weekend. Although, for fun, I've been to some Cru parties, SAI events, and many concerts with friends. Cru events and church are some of my favorite things during the week. I just love the fellowship and worshiping together. It really makes me happy and focuses me for the week. We had a worship service and bonfire one night in the fall, and it was so much fun! I also like going out to eat downtown with friends on the weekends, and Tuesday Nachos Night at Champs.
    I think I am very responsible when it comes to going out on the weeknights. I usually don't go out on weeknights, and if I do, I make sure that all of my work is done, and I don't stay out too late. I know not to let my school work suffer for going out, and I always make sure to get up for my morning classes. I feel that I have been balancing things pretty well, while enjoying myself thoroughly!