A Love Letter to Auburn

Spending these last few years on The Plains has been nothing short of an honor.

As my graduation nears, I am reflecting on my time spent in Auburn. When I initially stepped foot in Auburn as a high school junior, I would have never predicted how much would change and what growth would be in store for me. Coming to Auburn felt like a no-brainer to me. The minute I was on campus I was home. Nothing comes close to the Auburn family, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the family I’ve made here. From my friends, classmates, and coworkers, Auburn's support and love have been unmatched by anything I could have dreamed of. The people here are the reason why I will miss my time here so dearly.

To The Rec

The Rec has been one of the foundational parts of my college experience. I would spend hours throughout the week working out, meeting new friends, and finding workout buddies during my freshman year. During my second semester at Auburn, I applied for a marketing position with the Recreation & Wellness Center. Little did I know that the trajectory of my education would be defined by that interview I had in my dorm room. That interview led me to change my major and encouraged me to fully embrace my passion for creativity. Since then, I have never looked back, and I truly think it was fate. My coworkers are some of my dearest friends and I am so happy that Auburn – and The Rec, brought me to them.

To Wallace Hall

While many of you may not be familiar with Wallace Hall, I have grown to become quite fond of it. Countless hours in the design studio have made Wallace practically my second home outside of The Rec. Wallace is where my design education allowed me to flourish, push my limits, and grow as a designer. During my time at Auburn, I have had amazing faculty and peers who have continued to challenge and support me during my time in the graphic design program. I've gotten the privilege to present work in New York and travel for professional experiences. Some of these opportunities I couldn't have dreamt of. Not only has Auburn provided me with such an amazing education, but it has also taught me meaningful lessons about who I am.

To Auburn

Thank you for sending me loving friends, providing me with amazing mentors, and becoming my second family. It is true what they say about the Auburn family, the spirit of the campus is so palpable. It's not just a degree I will be leaving with, but also with memories l will cherish forever. I can’t wait to call myself an alumnus.

To the Next Auburn Tiger

For those of you starting your journey, or those who are nearing the finish line, here are some words of advice:

• Take your degree seriously, it is a huge investment to be here so don’t take it for granted. Putting more effort into your courses will 100% benefit you in your future career.

• While you are here primarily for school… also have fun! Find a good balance between work and play. Go on those weekend adventures with your friends, try new restaurants, and go on those late-night Cookout runs because you are only really a college student once.

• Savor every minute of your time here. It will feel like it is gone in an instant – this coming from a fifth-semester senior. While I didn’t initially plan on being here for an additional semester, it was truly a blessing in disguise.

• Make those leaps and try new things, I would not have changed my major or learned as much as I have if I hadn’t taken those risks. Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself because this is where you will grow the most.

• Stay for the whole football game, even if your feet hurt or if the score doesn’t look so pretty. The energy of the student section in Jordan-Hare is unmatched and I will be missing it while cheering on in the alumni sections.

It's always great to be an Auburn Tiger. Erika signing off!

Be Well, Auburn.