Dear Freshmen,

From the moment you walk through the Gateway onward, you are part of a community of sisters who all want you to succeed. When we once stood in your pristine saddle shoes, the girls who came before us were there to give us guidance and assistance. It is time we pay that kindness forward, so here you go! We have compiled a list of top notch advice from the class of 2017.

1. Teachers are your friends. Whenever you have a problem, go to them in your free time and ask for help. Don’t be too prideful to admit to needing assistance.

2. Grilled Cheese day is the best day. Always buy Grilled Cheese when the cafeteria is serving it.

3. Balance your free time between socializing and doing work in the library.

4. Note: the library break out rooms are NOT soundproof. Every freshman makes this mistake at some point. Break the cycle.

5. When people ask you the time, only say the minutes. People here at NDP know what hour it is.

6. Write your name and locker codes on your saddles.

7. Make friends with Ms. Janice.

8. Carry your sweater everywhere since walking through the school is like walking through multiple climates.

9. Start to hoard things in your class colors– mini meet is fast approaching.

10. Don’t lean against the sink while washing your hands. It will leave a big wet mark in exactly the right spot that will make you look incontinent.

11. Always buy candy from the Trading Post.

12. 5 dollar bills don’t work in the vending machine, so don’t get your hopes up.

13. Always eat your muffin with a spoon. This is borderline cult ritual here at NDP, so be safe and stick to the status quo on this one.

14. Don’t run over your saddle shoes to break them in. While this may seem like a good idea at first, you will certainly regret it on Ring Day 2022 when you have to buy a brand new pair of saddles due to tire marks. Don’t let this be you.

15. Be proud of your long uniform. A long uniform and tunic are a rite of passage for freshmen. Trust me, you will be glad that you didn’t hem it after that unexpected growth spurt sophomore year.

16. Try new clubs and sports. They are a great way to make new friends and discover what you like to do. Especially The Gateway. You should all join The Gateway staff.