As my final semester as an NC State student approaches, I’ve been taking time to reflect on the experiences that have shaped my college journey. I transferred to NC State my sophomore year, and it was the best decision I’ve made in my life so far. I came from a small private university, so it was a bit daunting to know I would be attending the largest university in North Carolina. As soon as my first semester started, I made sure to find as many ways to get involved as possible. Just like at my previous university, I came in knowing nobody, and finding ways to meet people and connect really made a difference.

On the first day of class, I walked into a lecture hall with over 200 people. I wasn’t used to that at all, and it definitely freaked me out. I sat next to a random girl after asking if the seat was taken, and she said I could sit there. It turned out she was also a transfer student. We became friends, and throughout the next few years, we experienced NC State together. Although she’s now graduated, we’re still very good friends. That experience showed me that putting yourself out there and talking to new people can take you a long way.

As someone who loves to sing, during my second week at State, I joined the NC State Chorale, where I’ve been a member since my sophomore year and have continued my passion for music. In the summer of 2024, I traveled with the choir to Italy, where we performed across the country in different cathedrals, including St. Peter’s Basilica. It was one of the most amazing, yet unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had.

In October of my transfer year, I applied for a job as a Parent Ally with the Office of Parents and Families Services. As a communication major, this opportunity has provided me with hands-on experience in my field while allowing me to get more involved on campus. This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time at NC State. Not only have I been able to contribute to the university, but I’ve also met so many amazing people who have shaped who I am today. For that, I’m extremely grateful and excited to see what comes next after graduation.

Thomas Radford, Parent Ally