Oct. 2, 2008
Get behind the scenes of Illinois Gymnastics with Illini Ink - the weekly women's gymnastics journal. In this week's edition, freshman Alyssa Harmon talks about her adjustments to college, getting to know her teammates, and the excitement of this upcoming season.
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Hey Illini fans!
I'm so excited to be writing my first journal entry! It's hard to believe that it's already October, it seems like yesterday when I was saying goodbye to my parents and moving into my dorm. I anticipated coming to college for so long, and I have loved every second of it! Between supporting our Illini at the football, volleyball, and soccer games, our fun recruiting weekends, and team activities, we have definitely been very busy in these first few weeks!
The transition to college has been very exciting. There are many new and different things to adjust to. Between finding my way around campus, learning the bus system, living with a roommate, and doing my own laundry, it has been quite the adventure! Coming from Florida, I know that one of the biggest adjustments I will have to make is the weather! I already think that we've been experiencing temperatures in the 50's this week and it's a little chilly, haha. I came from sandals and hurricanes back home, and will be going to boots and blizzards in no time! I know that seeing the leaves change in the fall and the snow in the winter will be beautiful though, I can't wait!
Being in such a great new environment with my new teammates and coaches has been so much fun. The freshman class instantly clicked, and we have been having a blast learning the new ways of college life together. We all come from different states on the east coast, but we have so much in common and have really meshed well. Getting to know our other teammates has been wonderful also. All the girls have been so welcoming and helpful; giving us rides, answering any questions we have, and just helping us transition into our new lives. Whether it's just eating dinner together or going miniature golfing and bowling, I love spending time with the team! We haven't known each other for long, but they already feel like sisters!
The atmosphere in the gym is fantastic. The closeness of the team shows every day, and its great how everyone is so positive and encouraging. We have team huddles at the start and end of every practice, and they create a sense team unity that can't be beat. Practices have been going really well and everyone is looking stronger. You can definitely expect big things from us this year! Team pictures were on Tuesday, and it was awesome putting on the official Illinois gear for the first time! We had fun making up cute poses, and doing quick outfit changes for the next shot. Our first pictures were taken in the gym, and the rest were outside in front of the Alumni Center. They all should turn out looking really nice.
Everything has truly been an amazing experience so far. I am so honored and happy to be representing U of I! I hope everyone has a great week, thanks for reading and GO ILLINI!
Alyssa
