A glimpse into the mind of college freshmen would definitely reveal the wide array of emotions that accompany their first week of freedom. How much laundry detergent goes in the washer? You actually have to attend class? What amount of Target gift cards are needed to fill an 18×11 dorm room to the brim? No curfew!?! In light of these questions, and countless others I’ve had, my total lack of knowledge concerning college life at Saint Louis University has become painfully apparent.

However, even in the short time I’ve spent here, I’ve gleaned a few bits of wisdom. I still must warn you that any insight I could possibly offer would be limited to explaining the intricacies of arranging a dorm room, the art of hoarding leftover food and the amount of Ted Drewes necessary for surviving the first few days of classes.

But, in just a few short days, I have mastered the ability to function sanely on no more than a few hours of sleep. Quite proudly, I must admit, many of us have successfully plagued Those Who Have Cars for rides to the Arch, the West End, Forest Park and, most importantly, Target.

I remember arriving at SLU and the surreal feeling that came with the realization that I was actually at college. After months of filling out endless applications, planning and packing, I finally arrived. Eating dorm food, spending Sunday afternoons in the laundry room and darting back and forth across Grand Avenue have been just a few constant reminders of this new reality.

Perhaps one of the most memorable moments of last week was witnessing the unintentional setting off of a fire alarm in one of the dorm rooms. It is amazing how quickly an overcooked brownie can turn into a fire hazard! This was just one of many consequences that resulted from the lack of home-cooked meals.

I have also encountered lessons that I am sure will prove more useful beyond my college years. As a Micah House member, I am already beginning to experience and appreciate an amazing community of individuals who both challenge and support me. As a freshman, I am relishing the countless opportunities offered to me and the welcoming, inviting attitude of those I meet. I could not imagine any place I’d rather be than SLU.

So, for all you freshman out there: stay open-minded, regardless of what crazy phenomena you may encounter on campus. Soak up the newness of this college experience-and are you sure you want to rub the Billiken’s belly?

Jen Mertens is a freshman in the College of Arts and Sciences