"Every New Beginning Comes From Some Other Beginning's End..."

I've been at Duke for a little while now, but as I become more and more comfortable and acclimated it feels like this has been home for a long time. I moved in two weeks ago yesterday, which is bizarre and things are in full swing. To catch people up, I'll compile a list of exciting happenings...

1. On the second or third night that I was here I went out to dinner with some people I met at this jazz thing. We went across the street to Whole Foods and it started raining. Once it slowed we decided to dash back to the dorms. I continued on to my dorm and continued some more...and some more...and some more. Seems I didn't quite know my way around campus yet, especially not at night in a storm, and with no one out to ask for directions I had a nice tour of the surroundings. I surrendered to the rain and had a good laugh about it with my hallmates when I finally got back. One of many freshman moments to come, I'm sure.

2. I'm a manager for the women's basketball team here. They're a phenomenal squad and we've got our eyes set on the national championship, so stay tuned. You can find the schedule here: http://www.goduke.com/SportSelect.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=4200&KEY=&SPID=1846&SPSID=22762

3. I've survived my first week of classes...and the first weekend. If you want to see pictures, take a peek at my facebook album, which you can access (even without an account), here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2001210&l=3576d&id=1018950065
I'll continue to update that album periodically as more pictures become available...when it's full and I have to switch to a new album I'll post that link up in a post for you. Right now it has some pictures from orientation week, an 80's themed night out and the first football game of the season (see below).

4. Saturday was the first football game of the season. After a 75 minute rain delay, we won a home game for the first time in 3 years and the season opener for the first time since 2002. I can't say enough about the school spirit here at Duke.

5. Everyone in my dorm is great. We all hang out a lot and do lots of cool stuff together.

6. I almost went out for the varsity crew team, before my hallmates talked some sense into me. Well, they mostly listened and offered some wisdom, but I was crazed for half a day (ask my parents!!).

7. There is always something going on here. The campus is just buzzing with excitement 24/7.

8. I heard Maya Angelou speak. She was the keynote speaker to wrap up our Orientation experience. She's been coming to Duke for over 15 years now, I think. Definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity.

I look forward to being in touch...shoot me an email if you want: rfi@duke.edu or leave comments to any posts.

I think that sums up the beginnings of college so until next time...GO BLUE DEVILS.