Et cetera

Salvete Amici!

As I was a student at GLA, I can firmly say that I love academy more than Narcissus loved himself. I thought it may be helpful to compile a list of non-essentials as well as tips in preparing for one of the most unique experiences of your life. Most of these aren’t required of you, however, hopefully they will prep many of you to get in the right mindset as academy rapidly approaches. Some belongings you may wish to have at your disposal:

• Radio; since you can’t bring most electronics, I enjoyed having my alarm clock/radio to use while I was doing homework, getting ready, or during otium (free time)
• A note from home; you may not receive mail for a while so a message from friends or family is nice to have
• Deck of cards
• Crafty materials; these can be used for several activities as well as in leisure
• Instruments and sheet music; I neglected this and regretted it!)
• Bug Spray/Sunscreen (you will need these--sine dubio!!)
• References Texts (Latin dictionary, Mythology book, etc.); texts that you think may contribute to your classes/overall experience!
• Water bottle 
• Board games
• Snacks
• Camera
• Tennis shoes/ active wear
• MEDICINE; I had to use a good amount of my spending money on this during my time as a student-don't be me!
• Greco-Roman accessories to go with your costumes such as jewelry, laurel wreaths, and sandals
• Layered clothes; despite the summer heat, it often gets chilly in the RMC buildings
• Bathing suit
• Ear plugs for light sleepers and the possibility of snoring roommates
• Trash bags
• A watch!
• All your nerdy classical stuff! (Or just nerdy stuff- I guarantee I am a fan)
• Don’t forget one or two dressy outfits for special events and/or church! 

Although you aren’t expected to know much about the various classes you will take, brushing up on some Latin grammar and vocabulary is not a bad idea. Additionally, if you have never learned scansion, it may be a good idea to try and understand the basics so that you won’t feel overwhelmed when it’s presented in some of your classes. Many of you will also have a roommate for the first time at academy, so I encourage you to be both patient and openminded as you will be living with her/him for three weeks!

Academy is roughly a month away which may be extremely exciting or terrifying. Regardless, I hope that you all enter academy with an open mind, ready to learn! We're not lying when we say that this will be an incredible experience that you may look back on and think, “O TEMPORA! O MORES!” as long as you are willing to enjoy the experience. *mic drop*

- Sallie Blanks, RA

P.S. I’ve included a photo to hint at one of my favorite academy excursions. Sorry for the glaring filter- that was a thing a couple years ago. Mistakes were made.