It was 30 years ago that I was a first-year student at St. Lawrence University. While I had grown up in Canton, New York, I still experienced SLU through the eyes of a newcomer and with the emotions of every 18-year-old. It was a thrilling time to meet new people, create lifelong friendships, take many different types of classes, and explore opportunities in clubs and activities that I had never tried before.   

When first asked to write a piece for The Hill News I thought, “That’s amazing that The Hill News is still going!” So, well done to all involved with the continuation of this fabulous and long-lasting tradition. Over the past 30 years, SLU has certainly embraced change but remained loyal to the memories, friendships, and traditions that make it such a special place. I was asked to reflect on some of my favorite things to do on campus when I was a student. I must be honest; most of my days were spent in training, and weekends were spent racing with the Cross Country and Track & Field teams. Being a long-distance runner means you are putting in the work year-round. You are in season in August before classes begin, and often still training and competing in May, when classes, finals, and even graduation have passed. So, time on campus as a three season athlete limits the social circles at times. Yet, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I met my husband, Jeff Lyndaker ’95, while at SLU, as he was also a member of the Cross Country and Track & Field teams. Much of my time was spent with my team, but I also stayed very connected to friends from my FYP. We went through a lot together during that first year living in Reiff, and those bonds remain strong. I was very lucky, as a local student, to obtain a job in the financial aid and admissions office while at SLU, and I spent my summers and school breaks working in Payson Hall, as well as many hours during the school year when I wasn’t in class or out training.  

There are a few of my favorite traditions at SLU that I must share with you. If you are a first-year student, I hope that you take note of these, and if you have been at SLU for a bit, I hope you have had a chance to enjoy these experiences yourself.   

*Try to attend as many different sporting events as you can! Our facilities and teams are outstanding. Be a part of the action!  

*Be sure to make it to the hockey games when possible; the atmosphere of Appleton Arena is the best. Be a part of the student section and enjoy every moment.   

*Take a moment of pause and listen, when you hear the chapel bells ring out at 5:00 p.m. 

*Be sure to take in the Candlelight Concert in December. There is such beauty when the chapel is filled with music and candlelight.   

*Take in the concerts put on by the Sinners and the Saints. Acappella music is inspiring, and these groups amazed me every chance I had to hear them.   

*I think they still have chicken parmesan nights — these used to be held at the old “Pub”/ Student Center before the dining hall was renovated and the new Student Center was built. This meal served as a weekly gathering for many friend groups on campus. There is really nothing better than a good Dana sit with friends.  

*Take a drive or hike in the Adirondacks in the fall to enjoy the leaves. It’s a breathtaking site.  

*Enjoy the first snow!  

Lastly, don’t forget to look for SLU everywhere you go. We all know that SLU has an amazing study-abroad program and a wonderful alumni network. However, it is in the small moments that you realize the depth of SLU. Every time you travel in an airport, attend concerts, go to an amusement park, or a sporting event — anywhere around the world — wear your SLU gear, there will surely be someone who says, ” I know that place!” We all know that there is no place on earth quite like St. Lawrence University. It is pure joy to now see our sophomore son, Nick, wearing the Scarlet and the Brown! For our family, he marks the 4th generation to attend SLU. So, there must be something pretty special about this place. GO SAINTS!