By Patrick Wall, Broadside Staff Writer
With your high school career in the rearview mirror, it’s time to start thinking about your bright future here at George Mason University. Now, you may be thinking to yourself, “I hope I never have to go through anything like high school ever again.”
This is a common sentiment, but fear not! We at Mason want you to know that, in fact, college is a lot different from high school.
With over 30,000 students, Mason is the most bustling school in Virginia. Not only is it easy to make friends—like that cute girl who sat next to you during Orientation—but it is a lot harder to make enemies . . . unless that cute girl’s boyfriend goes here, too.
Speaking of unfriendly characters, since Mason dining conveniently accepts a variety of meal plans for campus residents, there aren’t any bullies trying to take your lunch money. And with tons of dining options, that extra lunch money will get put to good use. Whether it’s sushi for breakfast or chili cheese fries at 2 a.m., Mason has your cravings covered.
Tired of not being able to get a ride to that big concert you really want to see? From Patriot Center shows to the weekly Every Freakin’ Friday concerts, there is always a show to see right on campus. Plus, the annual Mason Day festival has brought in big names like Gym Class Heroes and T-Pain.
Like sleeping in? Your glory days have arrived. Being able to pick your schedule of classes means you can finally live out your dream of being a vampire—sleeping during the day and going to class at night. But please, don’t bite anyone.
Finally, there’s the big one: your parents are gone! That one speaks for itself.
If you’re still finding the adjustment tough, don’t forget that there are tons of clubs, activities and groups to join. With so many students on campus, you’re bound to find people who like making Harry Potter sock puppets as much as you.
Remember, your college days will be some of the best of your life! Mason has a lot to offer, so take advantage of everything you can. After all, pints of ice cream are a lot more expensive when you can’t pay using your meal plan.
Welcome, freshmen, to your new home away from home.
Check out what incoming freshmen think the difference between high school and college will be.