The first day in Baton Rouge feels like a whirlwind. By the time I finish moving all my boxes into the dorm, I'm exhausted but oddly satisfied. The football dorm is quieter than I expected, with only a few players moving in and out. I figure most of them are still getting settled or finishing up summer activities.
My room is small but cozy, with just enough space for a bed, a desk, and a window that looks out onto the campus lawn. I set up my essentials first: the bedspread that reminds me of home, my desk lamp, and my photography gear. I've got a few decorative touches to add later, but for now, I'm focusing on making sure I have everything I need to start working with the team.
After a few hours of unpacking, I take a break and decide to explore the campus. I head out, taking note of the landmarks around my dorm building. Baton Rouge is sweltering in July, and the heat hits me like a wall as soon as I step outside. I find my way to the student center, where there's a small café that looks promising. I grab an iced coffee and sit down to enjoy the cool air conditioning.
As I sip my drink, I spot a flyer on the bulletin board about an upcoming orientation event. It's a social mixer for new students, and it sounds like a perfect opportunity to meet some of my fellow freshmen and get a feel for the campus community. I make a mental note to attend.
The next day, I'm scheduled for a fitting for the dresses that will coordinate with the football team's suits. The campus tailor's office is a bit of a trek from my dorm, but I manage to find it without too much trouble. The tailor, a friendly woman named Mia, helps me pick out a couple of dresses that fit the team's color scheme. It's a bit of a hassle, but I'm glad to have this sorted before practice starts.
After the fitting, I head back to my dorm and finally take a moment to relax. I unpack a few more personal items and arrange my photographs around the room. The more I settle in, the more it starts to feel like home.
Later in the afternoon, I decide to take Ms. Clark's advice and check out a local nail salon. It's not far from campus, and as soon as I walk in, the atmosphere is welcoming. I get a manicure and a quick chat with the technician about local spots and student life. It's nice to get a few insider tips and feel a little more connected to the area.
That evening, I attend the orientation mixer. It's a lively event with music, games, and a lot of excited students. I'm a bit nervous at first, but as I start chatting with other freshmen, I begin to feel more at ease. I meet a few people from my dorm and make plans to join a campus tour the following week.
As I head back to my dorm, the campus is lit up beautifully under the night sky. I take a deep breath, feeling a mix of anticipation and relief. The first days have been busy and a bit overwhelming, but I'm starting to see how everything is coming together.
I fall asleep that night with a smile, thinking about the new friendships I've begun to make, the exciting opportunities ahead, and the thrill of starting this next chapter of my life. Baton Rouge might be far from Ohio, but it's starting to feel like a place where I can truly belong
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Ohio to the Bayou
RomanceWhen you're just a girl who has only lived in Columbus, Ohio, decides to take on the bayou's LSU tigers. You're also the girl that falls for a Louisiana boy, who happens to play football, Ja'Marr Chase
