Clemson - A Love Story

When I think about Clemson I think about love. The people, the campus, the athletics, the town, the history, the traditions... everything about this place makes my heart so, so happy. It sounds super cheesy, but every day I spent as a  Clemson student was a dream come true.

I honestly don't know how to explain the overwhelming feeling that fills me up every time I walk on campus. I'm just filled with joy and awe that I got to spend three years living, learning, and making countless memories in this little college town. I met people and took classes that challenged and inspired me in the best way, and grew into a person that the 18 year old me wouldn't even recognize. Most days I couldn't wipe the smile off my face while walking from class to class admiring the beauty of my school and thinking about how darn lucky I was to be there.

Clemson absolutely changed my life for the better in a million and one ways. I became an English major and discovered my passion for writing. I took classes and met professors that pushed me to be my absolute best. I studied abroad and had an incredible time exploring Europe with my fellow Clemson students. I affiliated with my sorority which gave me some of my best friends/sisters. I fell in love with fitness and became a Zumba instructor, a position that pushed me physically and taught me so much about leadership. I spent three amazing football seasons cheering for my Tigers like a crazy person and got to experience some incredible games. I met people who will be my best friends for the rest of my life.

I will walk across that stage today with my head held high, and more love and pride in my heart than I know what to do with. It's so hard to close this chapter, but I have peace of mind knowing how blessed I am to have been even a small part of this wonderful university. It's all thanks to my Great-Grandpa who started our family's Clemson tradition back in 1919. Hopefully one day I'll get the chance to thank him for inadvertently leading me to this special place.

It breaks my heart that college has to end and that I can't just be Clemson student for the rest of my life. However, I know that Clemson will always be a part of me and that I'll forever be proud to call myself an alumni of this university. The absolute adoration I have for this place will never go away and I'll be back as much as possible. While my path may take me away from Clemson, a big piece of my heart will always remain in this special place. There really is something in these hills... Go Tigers!

PS: Special thanks to my talented Godmother who took these sweet pictures - I'll treasure them forever!

-Lanie W.