As the school year comes to a close, Delta Zeta reflects on the joys of being at the 903, in Gainesville, and above all, being a Florida Gator. For the past four years, we have watched our seniors grow into strong, confident women both in and out of the classroom. The lasting impact that they have made on our chapter is immeasurable and we are looking forward to seeing what they accomplish in the future. For now, here is some advice to the Class of 2027 from Delta Zeta’s Class of 2023.
Meghan Thompson
“My advice to the upcoming class is don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It may seem really scary at first when you come to a brand new place not knowing anyone, but you will find your people and they will become your strongest support system during some of the most important years of your life. I came to UF as an out of state student from California, not knowing anyone. Going through recruitment was the best decision I made. It enabled me to ease my transition into a new town/state and meet so many new people. The women I met during recruitment and in my new chapter became some of my closest friends and made me feel like I had a home away from home.”
Meghan Gramling
“Make sure to take to time to invest in friendships and relationships with those who are important. You need to focus on school, but getting involved in organizations that will help you in the future is really important! Don’t be afraid to talk to professors even if it is a big lecture hall and always reach out when you’re confused.”
Callen Camp
“My biggest piece of advice for the class of 2027 is don’t be afraid to protect your peace. College is an exciting time of change and growth. It’s important to experience it to the fullest, but at the end of the day it’s most important to do what makes YOU happy. There is nothing wrong with spending a night in watching Netflix or taking a walk to Depot Park. Take the pressure off of yourself! We’re all humans, doing the best we can.”
Dana Dauletgalikyzy
“My advice to new UF Class of 2027 is that it’s okay to not have your dream career path figured out your first year of college. When you start your first year, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure what direction you want to take in life. I remember moments when people around me were already networking with top finance firms while I was just figuring out what font to use on my resume. There were times when little freshman Dana felt that just because she didn’t have a concrete career plan laid out, it meant that she will become unsuccessful long term. I wish I wasn’t so harsh on myself, because many of my job aspirations really did become a reality, with the magic of time. Explore every opportunity that comes your way, get involved in unique clubs and learn versatile skills. Right things will come at the right time, and the best you can do is to welcome the universe to give you exactly what you need.”
Ella Slaughter
“When I began my first year at UF, college was extremely daunting. I quickly forgot of all the hard work I had to do in high school in order to achieve my dream of being a gator and instead, focused on how much I missed my family and high school friends. I am a person who struggles with change, and not getting to see my friends and family was a change in my life that was incredibly difficult during my freshman year. Because of this, I traveled back to my hometown as often as I could. Looking back as a senior, I wish I hadn’t done this. Returning back to my hometown made it harder to make meaningful connections at school and I struggled to adjust. Although it might be hard, try to stay in Gainesville as much as you can. Most freshmen share these feeling of homesickness and it is completely normal to feel that way. Get involved as much as you can. Join clubs, play sports, participate in anything that involves meeting others. By doing so, you’ll find people that make Gainesville feel like home.”
We can’t thank our seniors enough for setting the perfect example of what it means to be a sister, a friend, and finally, a University of Florida graduate.
To the Class of 2027, welcome home.
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