Freshman Year Memories: Halle Witherspoon

Now that I’m a senior at UW-Eau Claire, I find myself reflecting on my college experience often. My freshman year is one that stands out because it was my first time being granted true independence. On top of that, I got to live in a nice dorm — in close proximity to many others who were going through the same thing as me. Did I miss home? Of course. But the happy moments are what truly stand out. Here are some of my favorite things about my freshman year….

Living so close to people in the dorms

Have you ever lived right next door to your friends? Well, it’s a blast! It’s so easy to spend time with people because a lot of students keep their doors open. I could always find someone to go on a walk or grab a meal with. My freshman year residence hall was such a close knit community and my RA was always there for me — even wishing me a happy birthday on the mirror!

Decorating my dorm

Dorms are such cozy spaces with so much potential. My roommate and I hung lights on the walls and made it into a nice space that I felt comfortable in. I also hung pictures and had super comfy bedding. During the holidays, I would decorate our door with Dollar Tree finds.

My dorm essentials list:

• pictures from home
• lights
• nice blanket/pillow
• a plant
• snacks
• storage
• things from home

Game/movie nights with friends

Once my dorm was decorated, it became the perfect spot for game and movie nights. We would curl up on our futon and have the best nights. I loved playing Mario Kart and watching funny movies on a Friday evening. One time, my roommate and I even made a fort using our loft beds and a bunch of blankets. Nights like that become so memorable! Our dorm felt like a place where we could truly have so much fun and the possibilities were endless.

Joining clubs

Joining a few orgs was such a great way to meet people who shared the same interests as me. There are so many options and freshman year was a great time to join them.

Since I am a marketing major, I joined the American Marketing Association and made connections with people that I’m still friends with today. I also learned a lot about my major and built up a great professional network.

Additionally, I joined the Blugold Marching Band. The BMB instantly felt like a family to me. We had band camp the week before school started and I got to move in early. By the time classes began, I already recognized a lot of people on campus. I cannot stress enough how fun it is to get involved! You’ll meet so many people, while doing the things you love.

Going on walks

Some freshman, like me, didn’t bring their cars to the dorms. But guess what? It’s still easy to get around. I lived in Towers which is on Upper Campus. I would walk just a few minutes to get to Caribou Coffee, Owen Park, or Downtown Eau Claire. It was so easy to access the best spots in EC just by walking! It was really fun to go with friends and have a nice chat along the way.

Great spots for a walk:

• Putnam Trail
• Owen Park
• Downtown EC (great stores and restaurants!)
• Around campus
• From upper campus to Caribou Coffee on Clairemont Ave

Taking fun classes

Some of my favorite classes at UWEC were taken during my freshman year. Typically, first-year students take a lot of general courses that range from dozens of different subject areas. Students take classes that satisfy certain LE (Liberal Education) requirements — and the possibilities are endless. I took astronomy, music appreciation, and several others. It was so fun choosing which classes to take. My go-to study spot/snack spot was Einstein’s in Centennial Hall!

Meeting new people

For years, I was surrounded by the same people in my hometown/school district. Suddenly, at UWEC, a whole new world opened up. I made friends before the school year even started through all of the Facebook groups that are out there. Making new connections and learning about others is so exciting. I have grown close to the people I met freshman year and we have bonded over our experiences together.

Going to dinner with my friends was one of my favorite activities. We would go to the cafeteria in Hilltop and pick from the many food options. While we ate, we would sit and reflect on our days, sharing fun stories.

P.S. I personally loved the fries, quesadillas, and the build-your-own sandwich bar!

To wrap up

If you are considering attending UWEC and are feeling apprehensive about your first year — that is normal. I just want you to know that you have so many exciting things to look forward to. You‘ll be making endless memories every day. Then, when you are a senior like me, you’ll reflect on all the special moments.