7 years ago I crossed that state line and stepped foot on Southern University and A&M College campus. Good ole Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Wide eyed and bushy tailed, I was eager to experience the life on the yard that everyone spoke so much about. I would be lying if I didn’t hope to stumble across myself a Dwayne Wayne, but ultimately I was there to take care of business. I was a college softball player, a student athlete and I absolutely loved the sound of that. Fast forward to two degrees later. All packed up and ready to conquer the world, I can’t help but to think about how fast time flew by. I sit here looking at empty walls and empty space, boxes filled with all my belongings getting ready to move back to Texas. 

It’s such a bitter sweet feeling. Everything that I have known for almost a decade, I will leave behind. It’s so funny to think about how I initially felt seven years ago. I was all hyped about college until I was completely moved in to my dorm room and I realized this would be my new home. When my mom kissed me goodbye and walked out, if she would have came back in my dorm and said “Do you just want to leave?” I probably would have said yes. LOL I was that terrified about being in a new space and a new state, hours away from home. Now I sit here and think about everything that I won’t have once I leave. Blue Store chicken, Bounce music, beignets, gumbo, muffulettas, King Cake, Food Festivals and being able to purchase alcohol whenever I please (don’t judge me peasants). Oh, and don’t get me started on the Popeyes Chicken in Louisiana compared to Texas. It is NOT the same. LOL All jokes aside, Louisiana has became a part of me and essentially played a huge role in the woman that I am today. I found myself, I found my voice and I found my purpose here in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I have gained life long friends and memories that I will cherish until my last breath. The values, life lessons and pride that I have gained during my experience will live forever. The best part of me was produced at THE Southern University. No HBCU slander will ever prosper. It was hands down some of the greatest years of my life. Circle parties, Pretty Wednesday, Four Loco Friday’s (I think I just threw up in my mouth a bit), Vibes….before the management change, Battle of the City, Springfest, Football Season, swing out, The Human Jukebox, Homecoming, Road trips, Bayou Classic, my beautiful teammates that turned to sisters. I could go on and on. Man! It’s been real! Thank you Louisiana and most importantly

THANK YOU JAG NATION! Forever a defender of the gold and blue. 

(This was a picture at my first football game at SU *ugly cries*)

 

Find me jiggin’ at homecoming though.