Coming into a new school is always a daunting task, even for those who have done so before. As exciting as the prospect of college is, it can be a bit nerve-wracking to navigate your way on a new campus, with professors and peers that you do not know. When I was applying to San Francisco State and was in the process of accepting my admittance offer, I had come across the Instagram account of SFSU’s chapter for Her Campus – how I had found it, I honestly do not remember – most likely, it was through San Francisco State’s official Instagram account. What I do remember, though, is the immediate pull I felt to the cause that Her Campus was pioneering.Â
It was a small group of women who collaborated together to create a campus-run publication, all while creating bonds and uplifting and championing each other in the process – two things i was already very much so involved in and passionate about before even becoming a student here! I immediately submitted an application just because by that point, I was pretty certain of the path I was on, and I wanted to give myself the best chance at establishing connections during my time here.Â
Shortly after beginning my first semester here, I got the e-mail that I was in, and immediately after, my Instagram DM’s were flooded with a new group chat welcoming myself and other new members. This struck a chord with me, because these girls actually genuinely cared and wanted to include us newer members, which was something that was refreshing to witness.Â
We all eagerly attended meetings every 2 weeks that first semester, got deep and vulnerable with each other, and goofed off, too. We met up at Ocean Beach for a Bonfire night, and voted on writer of the month (of which I was one!). Overall, that first semester with Her Campus was magical, and I am eternally grateful for the community that I found. This is more than a sorority, it was a group of inspiring, creative, driven young women who found solace in each other’s company through the ups and downs of the college experience.Â
We have seen many come and go since I first arrived, but no matter whether you are still an SFSU student or not, you are a part of the Her Campus family forever, and that to me is the most beautiful part of it. To my HCSF girls – I love all of you, and thank you for making my experience here so much more positive!