Compiled by Vince DiFonzo, Opinions Editor and Lead Copy Editor
Drew Lemon ’24 (Photo Will Oehler/The Gettysburgian)
Drew Lemon ’24
During my time at Gettysburg, I have found that the most important aspect of our college is the empowering relationships that are offered through the members of our community. When I began my first year at Gettysburg back in 2020, our class was beginning the start of our college experience during a very turbulent time. Nonetheless, I was struck to see the dedication and support from staff members and faculty that did their best to provide a true Gettysburg experience. As the years have progressed during my time at the college, these relationships have not only transcended into lasting connections and mentorships, but they evolved into friendships. These friendships with our college faculty and staff have proven to be invaluable in so many ways, both personally, academically, and professionally. I am truly grateful for the individuals that make this campus extraordinary, and I am proud to be a part of the Gettysburg Family.
Kathryn Hopsicker ’24 (Photo Will Oehler/The Gettysburgian)
Kathryn Hopsicker ’24
I entered Gettysburg in the Fall of 2020 and my first year was spent in Zoom World. By sophomore year I felt like a freshman again. I attended my first classes in person, took my first on-paper college exams and started to find myself. My first deep-rooted connections on campus started with a job in the library. The students and librarians that I worked with became my best friends and I finally felt comfortable enough to thrive. I threw myself into the “Gettysburg experience” and my Health Science major. The opportunities and knowledge provided by our HS department were integral in my growth as a student and individual. Gettysburg is the place that I was meant to be for these past (almost) 4 years, and I am so grateful for the people that have made this experience Gettysburg Great. With my newfound knowledge, self-love, and new understanding of the world I have no doubt that my Gettysburg education will help me to go into the world with passion and confidence in anything I do.
Hannah Crowley ’24 (Photo Will Oehler/The Gettysburgian)
Hannah Crowley ’24
In the nearly four years I have been at Gettysburg College, what has amazed me about our community is our ability to connect beyond the classroom. Gettysburg College isn’t where you are or what you’re studying, it’s who you’re with, who you’re able to be yourself around, and who you’re able to grow with. I have had the privilege to meet my best friends while at Gettysburg, people who I have witnessed mature into intelligent, kind, and generous adults, and who have supported me in my own progress. While we may be from different places and study different topics, the college has brought us together in our most formative years and taught us the skills we need to succeed not only in the professional world, but the global community as well. I am indebted to Gettysburg for helping me evolve socially and academically, and for bringing these people into my life.
Noelle Muni ’24 (Photo Will Oehler/The Gettysburgian)
Noelle Muni ’24
When I was first applying to Gettysburg, I was looking at small liberal arts schools with decent biology programs. Between sending in my application and setting foot on campus for the first time, I had already changed my mind. One visit to the English department panel at Get Acquainted Day had already convinced me that they had everything I wanted. While on that zoom in my childhood bedroom, my stuffed animals and I took down notes on a few things, a couple of courses that sounded interesting, the writing concentration, and a study abroad program in Lancaster, England. Since that meeting, I’ve certainly continued to shuffle things around a little bit. Studying abroad in Lancaster turned into studying abroad in Bath (stunning, gorgeous, and highly recommended). I picked up a minor, dropped a minor, then picked up a different minor. I’ve taken so many courses I never expected to be interested in and found myself falling in love with them. Despite, *gestures broadly to the pandemic,* Gettysburg gave me the opportunity to go to places and try things I never knew existed and my time here has been absolutely unforgettable in all the best ways.
Fiona Cheyney ’24 (Photo Will Oehler/The Gettysburgian)
Fiona Cheyney ’24
Although we all have our own complaints about Gettysburg College, I’ll admit that I am already feeling nostalgic and sentimental about my college experience as I begin my senior year. It was easy to feel removed from the community, especially when we were completing our assignments from our couches in ZoomUni. However, as I have shifted into who I am today, I feel the inclusivity of the Gettysburg community more than ever before. Through the years, I’ve met and bonded with incredible people. I have life-long friends in my academic departments and enjoyed amazing opportunities through organizations like Her Campus and the Gettysburg Social Science Review. I am a leader in the activities that matter most to me. I am grateful to have this perspective so that I can be a helpful upperclassman to those who want social advice, homework help, or even just a supportive listener.
This article originally appeared on pages 6 to 7 of the October 2023 edition of The Gettysburgian’s magazine.
