Advice from an AU senior to a rising freshman: Get involved!

By Liesa Armstrong | Sports writer

When it comes to getting the full college experience, the first thing you may ask yourself is: What can I get involved in? How can I meet people and make new friendships?

Luckily for Augusta University students, this campus is filled with endless opportunities for genuine companionship, unique adventures, and an open-minded community.

When I graduated from high school in 2020, I didn’t even think there was a chance for me to continue my cheerleading career, but when I packed all my bags and decided on Augusta, everything changed.

Due to the harmful restraints of the COVID pandemic, there was no cheerleading team here at Augusta back in the 20-21 season. I was hesitant to step out of my comfort zone and tryout for the team once the 2021-2022 season came around. I questioned if I was good enough to be a collegiate athlete.

The first time I stepped onto our blue mats in Christenberry Fieldhouse, I knew it was right. I knew I had made the right decision coming to Augusta University. I knew how many opportunities and new experiences lied ahead. The two women who I first saw as welcoming and funny, became the two most hardworking women I now look up to as role models and am proud to call my coaches. I wouldn’t trade my experience as a collegiate cheerleader for anything in the world. I feel so lucky every day to be able to continue pursuing my dream.

I am now nearing the end of my collegiate career as a team captain and athlete. Being a part of the cheerleading family at AU has truly been a blessing. I can’t explain how much this team has changed my college experience for the better. I have made so many forever friendships and memories through this opportunity. Now, I am a senior and a captain on my cheerleading team and the feeling is intensely bittersweet.

If I could give one word of advice to incoming freshman at Augusta University: Get involved!

No matter what is it you may have an interest in, AU is the place to be when it comes to inclusivity, creativity, and new ideas. Anything is possible if you take that first step.

Contact Liesa Armstrong at  liarmstrong@augusta.edu.