Happy Foto Meeting Monday!!
I feel like an unc writing one of these, but so grateful for the opportunity. For those who don’t know me, I’m Aum, and I joined FOTO my junior year after transferring from a branch campus. My friend convinced me to come to my first Meeting Monday, where we got 2nd place in Birdie on a Perch (got robbed, should’ve been first). But looking back, I think that was probably my first sign that I was in the right place.
Another time, I really felt at home was at my first family visit at the Tramels’ house. I remember playing Brawl Stars with Matty and getting into a massive Nerf battle. Those little moments are what made FOTO so special to me. Getting to know the families, laughing with them, and becoming part of their lives gave me a sense of purpose that I’ll always be grateful for.
One thing I’ve realized since graduating is how much the little moments matter. Family birthdays, spikeball, water gun battles, getting stung by bees in the Tramels’ backyard, bake sales, HUB hangouts, and just the most random things. At the time, they’re just another day. Now, they’re the moments I find myself reminiscing about the most.
My biggest piece of advice is to make as many memories as you can. Go to the family visits, go to the socials, take photos, say yes to the random plans, and enjoy every second because it goes by way faster than you think. Foto was a huge part of my life at Penn State and it’s filled with nothing but great memories.
I also have to shoutout my co-chair Kaitlyn Looms for making my senior year as a MR chair so fun and special. Also a huge shoutout to Labubu 67 warriors squad, probably the best squad ever in FOTO history!
I only had two years in FOTO, but they were two of the most meaningful years of my Penn State experience. I’m so grateful I took that first step into FOTO my junior year and got to call this place home.
FTK Forever! And Nick, please retire, you’re so old and washed up.
