On Sunday June 23rd, 350 of the top incoming-seniors in Kentucky moved into their temporary home for the Summer, Murray State University. Nobody knew anyone and no one knew what to expect. Many scholars, like myself, had never left home for this long. This would be a completely new experience for all scholars across the state.
At GSP, you’re never alone. Whether it’s your roommates, hallmates, classmates, or friends, you’re always socializing at GSP. This makes it easy to make friends. Spending 35 days in a row with the same group of people, will make you very close to people…very fast. The first two weeks went by and when family day came on July 7th, people had already found their closest friends. The next 3 weeks absolutely flew by. Many scholars who dreaded coming to GSP got to week 5 and were dreading going home and leaving their new friends. The good thing is, the friendships made at GSP are supposed to be life-long. Some people will even turn their GSBaes into their GS husbands and wives, like our good friend Steve Easley.
But how are the scholars reacting to leaving on July 27th? Melanie interviewed scholars across campus, asking their feelings about departing this weekend. Sean Schierberg said, “While I am excited to go home, GSP has been a memory I will never forget. The effects these people have had on me will stay with me for the rest of my life; for that I am forever grateful.” This is a theme for many scholars. Most people miss home and are ready to be in their own beds, but they are sad to leave the people they have become very close to over these 5 weeks.
GSP is an experience unlike anything you will ever face in your life again. Mel always reminds us of the minutes we have left each Monday morning, but now that the time is here many scholars are realizing it truly flies by.
The good thing about GSP is that it’s not over when everyone goes home. The goal is that scholars stay in touch and take what they’ve learned back to their individual communities. The lessons that we have learned over these 35 days will impact the rest of our lives. So, while goodbyes may be hard this weekend, it’s more important to be grateful for the experience and cherish the memories you made for the rest of your life.
It’s not goodbye, it’s just see you later!
Already nostalgic? Click below to read more from our time here at GSP.
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