Cardinals' Nest

Orientation Session 6

    My experience at U of L's orientation really helped me to invision what my life will be like as a Cardinal this fall and what I should expect along the way.  I went into Orientation extremely nervous about everything that I was going to experience, and not knowing exactly what to expect.  Most of all I was excited to meet my roomate and see where I would be spending majority of the next four years of my life.

    My drive to orientation was a short but hectic one.  Me and my mom drove seperate and I decided that following her would be the best idea.  Well, I realized I forgot my pillow about twenty minutes after I left, and we were already late because we had to stop for gas.  So of course the whole drive down all I could think about was how I'm not going to be able to sleep and how my experience would be ruined (I'm very overdramatic).

    Well, I eventually arrived to the campus and me and my mom were told to split up and I was sent to Miller Hall to check in.  It was very crowded and all different types of people were there. I ckecked in and met my random roomate for the night and put my stuff in my room.  The room wasn't anything super special, but the bed was comfortable enough.  Then we all met up in front of the building and our SOSers (group leaders) led us in some games and cheers. I'm not a morning person, so these cheers weren't really something I wanted to be doing at 8 in the moring, but they seemed to really get people in a good and energetic mood. We then had to sit through some very boring lectures that were broken up by the SOSers tossing cardinal cash into the crowd.

Jessica Pence (Session 6)

I said a BOOM chicka BOOM

I personally thought that orientation was going to be a lot more boring than it turned out to be. From the minute you parked and made your way over to miller hall to check in, SOSers were located every step of the way.. literally. They told you anything and everything you may need to know about orientation. They made it fun for 7:30 in the morning during the summer; they were really peppy, cheering and teaching us cheers that will come in handy for our four year at U of L. I checked in, and as I was coming out of miller hall from dropping my stuff off, it felt like maybe this was going to be a lot different than I thought. It definitely was. U of L was not my first choice, but the SOSers made me feel so at home and comfortable that I am so glad to be a CARD!! Altough the 1st day was pointless, my time with my SOSer and my team was definitely great! Minus the information sessions, the cardinal bucks and mascot stealing definitely made my day. Being a vegetarian the Lunch and Dinner weren't the best things in the world, but I sure are heck didn't die, not after the Milkshakes and the Pizza and Red Barn!!!Me telling you all about Orientation would ruin all the surprises the SOSers have up their sleeve, but do remember, don't step on the Cardinal Head, and the SOSers do know what they are talking about. Talk to everyone and anyone, participate, steal everyone's mascot..but keep yours safe!...See all of you guys in August!!. GO CARDS!!!

Robocops!
--Krupa Patel (Session 9)

First step to freshman year!

Just as long as you don't wear any U.K. paraphernalia and your first step isn't on the Cardinal head at the foot of the SAC no first step onto UofL's campus is a bad one!

- Aaron McCarley (Session 8)

Do the stanky legg!

At first, when I looked at the orientation confirmation e-mail and saw that I started at 7:30 in the morning I freaked! I'm really not an early morning person in the summer.  But once I arrived at Miller Hall with two of my friends (because of course we wanted to room together), my spirits became lifted and I was excited to be at orientation.  The SOSers had music blasting and were dancing as we walked in to get our room keys. The lines to get the keys were long but luckily there were many social people in line and I began to make friends by just talking about how early we had to get to up and such things.

The first day of orientation really got started once I met my group and my SOSer. Then it was off to a day of talking and informative information sessions.  Now, one might think this was boring and yes, at times, it was but the SOSers tried and succeed in keeping everyone entertained.  My biggest advice to future orientation attendees is to become friends with the people in your SOS group because you will be spending a lot of time with them during the course of orientation. Even though you will be with your group a lot of orientation there is still a lot of free time which can be used to socialize and make some new friends.  The food during orientation for lunch and dinner is different each day of orientation and the food that I experienced was pretty good but the time when you eat is a little spread out so I would advize bringing a little bit of extra food for your dorm room for the free time you might have and might become hungry. Also, the evening entertainment is another time where you can branch out and meet new friends from all over the country and even the world (I meet a girl from Russia).

Day Two begins with a grab bag breakfast which is pretty good and they also have free massages and Starbucks so that is an incentive for waking up early.  Now, day two of orientation is the most important day of orientation because it is when you actually register for your classes. The biggest thing is to try to win the Cardinal Challenge Scavenger Hunt because the winning teams get to register first which is a must so you will not be stuck in Saturday classes or classes really late at night. After you register for classes then orientation is sadly over and you have two months left before you officially start school in August!

I chose the University of Louisville because it was financially feasible and also because it has a great program that is nationally recognized for my major (biology) and has a fantastic medical school. Like most other incoming freshman, I am excited about starting classes in the fall because of the new found freedom that I will be able to have and possess.  Even though you probably have heard horror stories about Miller Hall all of them are not true.  My dorm room was fantastic and the whole experience had me thinking about living in a traditional dorm even if only for a little while.  A big piece of advice I could give you is to pay attention when you walk around campus and get tours of the campus because it will not only help in the Cardinal Challenge but will also help when you start school in the fall.  I hope you enjoy orientation and make a lot of new friends!

P.S.- You will learn more about why I titled this "Do the stanky legg" when you actually attend Orientation.

- Annetra Taylor (Session 5)

Freshman Orientation

I am so excited to go to UofL because it's not far from my hometown and it has a great small school feel inside a large university. To be honest, I was really excited about orientation because it served as a milemarker in my life symbolizing the beginning of a new adventure. College is finally here.

It all started early in the morning when I left my house to meet up with my friend (we wanted to room together). After we parked and walked to Miller, we waited to check in. All of a sudden, tons of people seemed to fill the place. Some had bright red polos with matching shoes, and the students showed a great diversity of style and personality. I couldn't wait to meet some different people. After my friend and I got settled in our room, which happened to be in threlkeld, we went back to miller to meet up with our SOSers. They proceeded to make us feel more comfortable in our group and tell us several traditions around campus which means a lot moving and shouting. (in case you didn't know the cards cheer, you will) I was part of Jessica's Jumbo Jets!

The rest of the day contained information sessions and advising in our assigned groups. Lunch was a very busy part of the day because it was a university info and group fair. Everyone was also encouraged to buy an orientation shirt, parking pass, and tickets for basketball and football. You really have to know your email for this part of the day because you have the opportunity to sign up for anything that interests you, and believe me, its a lot.

Being a part of the honors program, advising was very helpful and exciting. Our advisors presented information about the program and certain classes and then set us on our own to figure out what classes to take for our intended path.

That night was my favorite part of orientation. We rejoined as a group after dinner to watch several skits entitled "The Real World" which presented issues that may arise in our college careers. It spurred a lot of conversation and helped people connect. After we were dismissed from the program, we had the options of getting milkshakes, playing rockband or cornhole, or dancing at the Red Barn. I traveled around to all three.

Overall, orientation went very well concluding with registration and the great cardinal challenge. Registration was easy - some advice - think of some of the classes you need to take for your intended major. (classes and requirements for gen ed and majors can be found on the uofl website). As for the challenge, I will keep it a surprise except for the fact that good walking shoes are a necessity. I got blisters in between my toes from flip flops :( My favorite part about campus is that it is all walkable. My not so favorite part was that the dorms need some renevation. However, I still enjoyed my stay and I hope you enjoy yours. See you in the fall!

Leah Dahline (Session 4)

Here we go....

It all began at 7:30 Thursday morning in the pouring down rain. It had been nice and hot all week and then orientation comes and the weather decides to get rainy and cold. The SOSers didn't let the dreary weather dampen their spirits though, they just kept on trying to get us incoming freshman to dance awkwardly with them, haha. I luckily didn't have to take any tests, so I just stood around being nervous until we got into our SOS groups. My group only had 4 people, so it made for quick introductions and it was a little easier to get to know them. I was a part of Hilarie's Heartbreakers (and we sucked at the mascot game). Our SOSers took us to the auditorium where eventually the parents joined us. We listened to President Ramsey and Student Body President OJ talk about why it is so great to be a Cardinal, and they told us to make the most of college, take advantage of everything. Next, the SOSers were introduced and they made it rain Cardinal Cash as they danced down the aisles. We listened to people talk anout how to get involved freshman year and about financial aid. From there the parents went off and the SOS groups went to their specific college to learn more about requirements and classes, etc. So my group headed off to the School of Education and Human Development (I'm a sports administration major). Our advisors gave everyone a general overview of what to expect in the future and how everything would go the next day when we scheduled classes. After that it was off to lunch. At lunch there were informational booths set up so we could learn everything possible.

After lunch there were more informational sessions we had to sit through, inlcuding campus health and security, and some sessions we got to pick.Everybody, including parents learned many Cardinal traditions (fight song, all hail, cards cheer, etc.). Then it was off to dinner and we bid our parents goodbye. We had some free time, i shopped at the bookstore and met some new friends as we waited for the Real World Skits to begin. They were great. Many were entertaining but all conveyed a message that we should learn from. After that we split up and discussed what we thoguht of the skits and debated some questions. After that, it was party time. I personally went to the dance at the Red Barn (it was a blast) but there were free milkshakes, cornhole, pool, RockBand, there really is something for everyone. When it came time to break up the party at 10:45 for our last SOS meeting of the day, everyone was a little disappointed. But after we met with our SOSers they gave us free pizza and were allowed to do whatever as long as we stayed on campus. I was up til 1:30 just chiling with people outside MIller. It was fun but everyone was exhausted.

First thing on Day 2 you take this big long survey (kinda boring) and then half the people go to advising the other half go to the Cardinal Challenge. I went to the cardinal challenge first and it was a lot of fun. Some answers are really easy but some you actually have to work for. But its pretty much an hour of exploring campus with some competition thrown in. We didn't win though :( THen off to advising, where you set up your schedule. THere are soooo many choices and about a hundred English 101's to choose from, it makes you a little overwhelmed. But eventually it all works out, and the advisors are really helpful. So it was off to lunch before we actually registered. During lunch there was a Cards Expo where there were a bunch of clubs to learn about. After lunch we did a couple last CARDS cheers and another rendition of ALL HAIL before it was off to register. Then we were free to go home. 

Overall, Orientation was a blast. I came out more informed, more comfortable and with some new friends. My advice is to go in with an open mind and a good attitude. Don't be afraid to meet people (everyone is really nice and just as nervous as you), don't be afraid to ask questions.

Just be yourself and dont be afraid to have fun!

GO CARDS!! -Jenny Nicholson (Session 3)

Amanda Kept Up with the Khloe & Kim Kardashian

Hello blog friends!  First of all, I wanted to say that I loved reading the first orientation blog of the summer.  :)

I don't know how many of you are into reality TV, but I am.  I love my E!, VH1, and MTV reality shows most of all.  On May 22, I went to Angels Rockbar and Hotel Nightclub--two clubs at 4th Street Live (a cool entertainment venue in Louisville with clubs, shopping, and restaurants)--to see one of my fav reality stars right now...  KHLOE KARDASHIAN FROM KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS (E! reality show, for those of you who don't know)!!!  Khloe and I have been compared to each other, and I just hadddd to meet her.

I was so ridiculously excited!  My absolute favorite part of the night was when my friend, Will (who I went with and had a friend that got us into the VIP area--thanks friend!), and I got a picture with Khloe while we chatted with her.  Khloe was so fun and seeing how cool and sweet she was in real life (She was getting pictures made with anyone who wanted them.) made me an even bigger fan.  Though she may not be all that famous, I thought it was pretty cool that the clubs had her here in Louisville for an appearance.  I love living in this city!

I hope you all have a great weekend!
-Amanda James, Office of Admissions

P.S.  I just realized I never blogged about this...  or if I did, I can't find it.  But Kim Kardashian (Khloe's sister who is more famous) and her mom Kris Jenner were in Louisville for the Kentucky Derby, and Kim hosted The Derby Spectacular party that I was lucky enough to attend. No pictures with her, but I did get some pics from the red carpet.  Here's one:

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN

It all started one bight and quite early May 28^th morning. My brother and I ventured towards what we call the unknown land aka college. As we parked our car and strolled through the tunnel and down long flights of steps, my bags packed and heavy on my shoulder, we soon meet up with a peppy and bubbly red jacket wearing SOSer.

She directed us towards the numerous others and along the way; we soon began to realize this was our journey and transition from everyday seniors to the newest flock of cardinals. After hearing “don’t step on the bird” and being introduced to so many people that it was too early to recognize we made our way not to Miller Hall but to the oldest residence hall at the university, Threlkeld Hall. Due to my brother and my punctuality, we were among the lucky 40 students who were allowed to stay in Threlkeld Hall for orientation. Luckily I had an hour of down time due to not taking the math placement test , as I met my new roommate and exchanged questions I soon figured out that this orientation was going to be the highlight of my week. After receiving my official UofL folder that after the 2 days would be filled with paper and my brightly colored lanyard I was sent outside to meet my SOSer and the select few that I would call team mates. Team world champions were what we were called. Juan gave the name to us not only because we were cardinals but also because we were HIS cardinals for the next 2 days. We went around the circle and gave our name, the name of our high school, and of course, we talked about our favorite movies. That is where the bonding all began. We waked into an auditorium filled with parents, future birds, and some crazy SOSers…the welcoming had begun. After President Ramsey and SGA president OJ spoke the fun times began and the cardinal bucks fell from the sky! We talked about various topics ranging from financing to making fun of the different SOSers.

 

After sitting for a very long time and attempting to stay awake, we were all released from the stuffy auditorium and were allowed to enjoy lunch with our new teammates and parents. During lunch, students were allowed to roam about and explore the attributes of the university and ways they could “get involved”. I purchased my orientation tee shirt and of course, the all-powerful season tickets. From there we said goodbye to our parents and made our way to various sessions full of games, information, laughter and all around fun. We learned not only about the wonderful campus health options and the safety of the campus and its precautions but some of the cardinal traditions, spirit and rituals, from the card chant to the glorious high five that is trademarked by the University of Louisville…we learned it all. After peeking at my residence hall and measuring my room to see how big, a flat screen I could fit in there, I met up with my dad yet again for dinner. It was from there that I said my final goodbye and made my way back to the auditorium for an evening FULL of entertainment (SOSers major in acting…) from some real world skits, I learned different situations my peers are faced with and how to handle them when they arose with a laugh or two thrown in.

 

It was not until day two that I looked at the classes and boy was I excited! I was in the first group to do the “cardinal challenge” and unfortunately, we did not win… after the humiliation of loosing, I was sent into a room to meet one on one with my advisor. They had many tips for me that not only helped me choose classes for this year but also warned me about future classes I should avoid. He started by asking me the different styles of teaching that helps me most, what interested me, and how early I wanted to roll out of bed during the next four years. My answers helped him to create my schedule.  From then I was officially a CARDINAL!

 

Overall, I would say orientation was much more then just picking out classes and meeting some of my fellow classmates, but a window into what my life at the University of Louisville will be like next year, and boy is that window bright. I left the university the way I came with a heavy bag, directed by red jacket wearing individuals, but with a few more numbers in my phone and an unforgettable first look at my life in college.

TIPS:

Bring snacks for the two days

if easily chilled bring extra blankets and a hoodie (the rooms tended to be rather chilly)

 “get involved” is always the right answer

DONT STEP ON THE BIRD

listen to what your advisor says, they have personally been in your shoes

 SING THE FIGHT SONG AND CHEER

Make sure on the CARD Challenge you pick someone that has plenty of battery and signal

Get your parentals involved in the EXPOs, believe it or not, they can help

and just have FUN!

Stephanie Allen (Session 1)

Busy Summer!

Even in the summer I am so busy! The spring semester has been out of school for a month and I am just as busy if not more. Here is a typical day of mine: I wake up at 8 and leave my parents' house at 8:40 and get to work around 9. I leave at 5 to go to the UofL library and facilitate a Bible study with one of my friends from Ballroom Dancing class (from the spring) until around 6. Then I hang out with my friends; play frisbee, cook, and/or watch a movie until midnight to 3am. Then I wake up at 8am the next day. It's a never ending cycle. But it sure is fun! I'm totally blessed to have a job, study the Word, and hang out with friends! There's never a boring day when you don't take for granted every opportunity you have been given.

Unfortunately this cycle will cease as of next Monday. I will be going to camp next Monday, June 8. I will be camp counselor for Girls in Action (GA) camp, which is sponsored by the Kentucky Baptist Convention (KBC). This camp is for girls in grades 3rd-6th, 6th-10th (Acteens), mothers and daughters on the weekends, boys and girls 3rd-6th grade when there is an Express camp, and when we travel to Lincoln County, Boone County, and Green Valley. I will be the recreation leader and will be leading the games, rock climbing, horseback riding, ziplining, and the blob. I will also receive the opportunity to lead Bible studies each week. I am totally excited. For more information about this camp you can visit: Mssion Adventure Camp

I will be back July 24th and after that I will hang out with friends and go to Cincinatti for a roadtrip. We will definitely go to Jungle Jim's, hopefully King's Island, and maybe some other places. I've already gone on a roadtrip with my accountability group to Nashville, TN. It was a great experience. We were there for two days and went to Vanderbilt, Green Hills Mall, Bluebird Cafe (which is where many well known artists are discovered like Trace Adkins, Kenny Chesney, Chris Rice (a Christian singer), The Great Divide, Karen Carpenter...), the Nashville Zoo, OpryMall, and walked along the streets of downtown where there were many restaurants with music and souvenir stores. Then we stayed the night in Bowling Green at my friend's house. We watched Hitch and Across the Universe. I enjoyed the bonding moments we shared during the trip and how much we got to enjoy each other's company. I will give credit where it is due and I would like to say God is great!

Signing out,
Jocelyn Yuen

Facebook and Twitter makes people even lonlier

I feel like this day in age people are to know more and more things about others. People have more access to stalk people on facebook and twitter. Today, I joined the bandwagon. I got a twitter. I'm not sure exactly how it works because I just got it about 20 minutes ago, but it's cool to "stalk" famous people. But that's what people want. They want to be known and want people to know what they are doing. It makes them feel important. But at the end of the day, that comfort can still lead us to be lonely because we have put all our focus on the internet instead of spending time with friends and getting to really know someone intimately. Before college, I was a very surfacy person. I said hi to everyone, but at the end of the day, I had no "base" to go back to. I was all alone. And even though I had just talked to someone 5 minutes ago, I felt no one cared for me. No one loved me.

But since being in college, my perspective has changed. Yes, I still get on facebook and sometimes seek that attention of letting people know what is going on in my life, as if I were a celebrity (but I don't update my status like in the past), but I have become less addicted to fb...sorta, and most importantly, I have established great friendships with people I can talk to. The Lord has really blessed me. I am thankful for that.

Signing out,
Jocelyn Yuen